BUILDING work at Upton-upon-Severn Baptist Church will be carried out without breaching the ancient wall behind the church, town councillors heard.

The church, which has no vehicular access from its frontage on Old Street, has planning permission for renovation and extension work and wanted temporary access for builder's lorries from Oak Row, at the rear.

But the town council, at its monthly meeting, was fiercely opposed to the idea of breaching one of Upton's historic walls, besides being concerned about vehicles crossing an alleyway used as a safe route to Upton Primary School.

This week, members heard that a compromise had been found which would not involve a temporary closure of Oak Row.

Lorries will have access to the site through a hedge by Upton Social Club and a new brick wall made of engineering bricks.

They will have to cross part of the police garage area, which is at a different level from the footpath, so a ramp will be needed, but this will be removed outside working hours to prevent motorists and skateboarders from using it.

A "bankman" will be on hand to ensure the safety of pedestrians every time a lorry has to cross Oak Row.