Upton Flood Forum

December 2009

Upton Flood Forum has collected 1700-plus signatures in a petition supporting the Environment Agency plans for Upton Flood Defences. This figure represents people and businesses from Upton, surrounding areas and visitors who love coming to our town. Copies of these were presented to the Town Council on 29th September and to MHDC on 15th October.

Plans for a flood defence north-west of the town (from Church Street to Old Street including New Street and Backfields) are now with Malvern Hills District Council. A positive decision is anticipated in December.

The design for the river frontage food defence wall is close to being finalised. A planning submission is expected in January. In a comprehensive report the Environment Agency has dismissed building an alternative rising barrier because of inherent failure risks. The full report can be viewed on our website: http://www.uptonfloodforum.co.uk

The riverside aspect is also attracting inward investment that will revitalise this area of our town. It is understood that the Environment Agency plans include pedestrian-only areas, with new seating providing river views. The road will be raised providing an 'alfresco' dining and drinking area in the vicinity of the Swan public house. In fact more is to be spent by the Agency to beautify our river frontage than any other flood defence project. There is also keen interest in creating a regular market within the new pedestrian area. Our MP, Sir Michael Spicer has also promised to ensure the riverside scheme is aesthetically pleasing and complements this important area.

The bund skirting the playing fields will provide further benefits, as well as being a walkway and vantage point to watch rugby and football! The existing overhead electricity lines will be routed underground and the Agency is making up to £30,000 available for enhancements to playing areas. The rugby clubhouse will have new landscaping.

Flooding is currently an ever-present threat to our town. Perhaps the question we should be asking is what would no flood defences mean for the town? This is our chance to protect homes and businesses and make our town the perfect place to visit.
Simon Speers, Chairman