THE opening of Upton-upon-Severn’s new flood wall has been hailed as a new start for the town.

The Waterside scheme was officially opened on Friday by Harriett Baldwin, MP for West Worcestershire, mayor of Upton Andrea Morgan and Upton-upon-Severn Primary School pupils Brandon and Calais Butcher, aged 11.

It consists of a flood wall with glass panels 450mm high along its length to maintain views and gates allowing access to the river. It will defend 64 homes and businesses with a one in 150 chance of flooding in any given year.

Grahame Bunn, vice-chairman of the Upton Flood Forum and landlord of the King’s Head and the Anchor pubs in Upton, said: “It’s just fantastic. For the town it’s just such a relief that the floods are a thing of the past.

“Three months ago we had five empty shops in the town, now there’s just one. It’s just building confidence back in the town.”

Councillor Morgan said: “It’s a new start for Upton. Businesses can get back on their feet. This river has always brought trade to Upton and now it can do it without harming anybody.”

Upton has a long history of flooding, with more than 70 floods since 1970.

In 2005, the Environment Agency trialled the use of temporary flood barriers along the waterfront area which have protected homes and businesses for six years, until it worked with the community to develop a permanent barrier.

The town is also protected by a separate scheme at New Street, opened in November.

Anthony Perry, flood risk manager for the Environment Agency, said: “We are delighted the final phase of construction is now complete and will provide a more resilient flood defence system to protect homes and businesses in the town.”