Harriett Baldwin today welcomed further progress of the county’s flood defences at a sod-cutting ceremony at Kempsey. The MP praised the work of local campaigners and the Environment Agency as work was stated on another important scheme. The £1.5 million scheme has been backed by funds from the Environment Agency, Worcestershire County Council , Kempsey Parish Council and the local Kempsey Flood Action Group. Kempsey has been flooded 23 times in the last 30 years with over 150 homes at threat. Harriett commented: “It is great news to be cutting the first sod on another important piece in the jigsaw to prevent our local homes and businesses from the nightmare of flooding. “Kempsey has been particularly hard hit in recent years and I know the local people have worked hard with to get the defence works in place. “The village sits on the main A38 link road so it is important that this work prevents major traffic disruption during periods of heavy rainfall. “Flooding is a continued blight on local home owners and we must keep up the pressure to prevent as many people as possible from being affected.” The ceremony follows further good news that work will resume in Upton leading to the completion of the construction work along the waterside by April next year. The work has been timed to reduce impact on tourist and holiday-makers visiting the town. Harriett added: “Although some of the defence work started earlier this year, I know that local residents will be pleased to see the waterside project get underway. “There have been some initial teething problems but this work will be important for the long-term protection of Upton’s business and homes.”