FLOOD defences for a village near Worcester have moved a step closer to reality after the Environment Agency announced a public consultation on the plans.

The proposed Kempsey flood alleviation scheme would be aimed at preventing the type of flooding which hit 180 of the village’s houses - more than a tenth of households - last summer.

In a letter to Sir Michael Spicer, West-Worcestershire MP, the agency stated it was preparing to give villagers a say on any new defences.

Mr Spicer, who has been campaigning for the flood defence scheme for a decade, said: “I am delighted there is now firm progress towards such a scheme.

“What is important is the villagers, particularly those most affected, should respond as quickly as possible to the consultation once a date, time and venue for a public open day has been agreed.”

David Harrison, Kempsey Parish Council chairman, was delighted by the news, adding it was a result for long-suffering villagers.

“We’ve been pressing for this for years and I’m very pleased, particularly after last summer’s flooding,” he said.

Mr Harrison added agency engineers had been carrying out feasibility studies throughout the summer at the riverside Church Meadows site.

Previously, discussions between parish councillors and agency staff have included proposals for a bund protecting the worst-affected homes near the river Severn and properties along the course of the Hatfield Brook, including Church Street.

A pump would then carry excess water into the river.

Dan Corns, of Church Street, said: “I think it’s well overdue. I moved here seven years ago and it was mooted then.

“Let’s just hope this isn’t another fob off from the Environment Agency.”

Emily Poyser, agency spokeswoman, said the scheme was “ongoing” and a consultation would be held before the end of the year.