A permanent flood defence scheme in Severn Stoke has moved a step closer this week after the Environment Agency confirmed it is developing a detailed plan to protect the village. The plan will look at the best way to protect homes and businesses in the village as well as keeping the vital A38 road open. West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin has been working closely with the landowners to attempt to find a workable scheme and agreement has now been reached. Harriett met with the Environment Agency chief executive Sir James Bevan and the Flood and Coastal Erosion Committee chair Anne Wheeler to discuss the importance of delivering a flood defence scheme in Severn Stoke. Harriett said: “There have been extensive conversations with local landowners to try and find a plan that protects the village and works for the people who own the land. “The Environment Agency is now looking at the scheme in detail and I will work with the local authorities to attempt to secure funding to make the scheme a reality. “The protection of the village and the A38 has been one of my key aims in West Worcestershire and I am pleased that further progress is now being made.”