PUBLIC support is increasing for new defences to protect a riverside town.

More than 1,500 signatures have been collected backing plans for Upton-upon-Severn’s proposed two-phase defences, which comprise a wall and a bund.

Members of Upton Flood Forum handed over a petition to West Worcestershire MP Sir Michael Spicer at the King’s Head, Waterside, giving unconditional support for the Environment Agency’s proposals.

Sir Michael said: “I support the Environment Agency’s plans fully. The important thing is that people show the agency how much support there is for their scheme.”

Members of the Upton Flood Forum have been collecting signatures over the past fortnight after a row broke out over the riverside phase of the planned defences. The EA’s current proposals would see a permanent wall with landscaping from the road bridge running south to the ham. The bund would protect properties in the New Street area. But residents and some businesses believe a self-raising barrier, promoted by a Droitwich firm, is the way forward.

A recent public meeting about the defences nearly descended into farce, after residents for and against the agency’s plans locked horns.

The Environment Agency had originally discounted the self-raising barrier, but is revisiting the idea after pressure from locals and a pledge it made at that meeting.

However, petition supporter Peter Webb, chairman of Upton Trade and Tourism Association, said it was time to press on. “The self-raising barrier has already been looked at in depth and isn’t suitable,” he said.

Grahame Bunn, landlord of the King’s Head, agreed. “The defences will enhance the waterfront and provide a pleasant and welcoming area for both visitors and residents alike.”

Sir Michael will now send the petition to environment minister Hilary Benn. Meanwhile, the Environment Agency should submit an application for the defences in January to be finished by March 2011. Plans for an earth bund to protect the New Street area will be submitted imminently with work starting in June.