West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin has today the Environment Agency to step up its work to protect more homes in the county following a heavy rain and flooding. Flood defence schemes in Upton-upon-Severn and Kempsey have been in full action protecting homes and businesses and the completion of the road raising work near Ryall came just in time to handle the latest river surges. But there are still areas in West Worcestershire that want permanent flood protection – including Severn Stoke – and Harriett has been in regular touch with local groups who are working with the Environment Agency to progress schemes. Harriett has also worked with local authority representatives in Tenbury to identify ways to deliver schemes which could protect the town in times of serious flooding. She commented: “There are six completed flood schemes in West Worcestershire and I know local people value the millions of pounds of investment which has helped to keep homes and businesses protected. “The completion of the Ryall Road scheme has faced its first test and that measure is important to keep Upton open for business during periods of poor weather. “But I am all too aware that there are still schemes that are in the planning stages – especially the community-led scheme at Severn Stoke. “This surge in flood water is an important reminder to the Environment Agency that the work is not close to being complete in West Worcestershire and I will be hoping for an update on the Tenbury and Severn Stoke plans very soon.”