JUST two days ago, this column bemoaned the lack of investment along Worcester's riverside.

Commenting on Arena's decision to scrap planned improvements to Pitchcroft, we argued that the Faithful City was never going to achieve its true potential unless those areas beside the Severn were given the sort of treatment they deserved.

Now, just 48 hours later, we have a superstore's plans for a major investment on Hylton's Road's old fruit and veg market.

Contained within the plans are a £4m flood barrier. The proposed scheme, we are told, has been welcomed by Worcester Action Against Flooding, the Environment Agency and Worcester City Council.

Before we add our name to this list, we should declare an interest. The Evening News is based on Hylton Road and we would, of course, welcome a permanent barrier that would prevent flood chaos in the city.

The superstore's proposals - which are at an early stage - would mean a landscaped barrier snaking along part of the riverfront, providing a flood-free zone for businesses and a bright future for one of the main thoroughfares into the city.

So, we do welcome the proposals - but with one proviso. What, we would like to know, will be the effect on the opposite bank of the river? Will this mean that Pitchcroft's chances of being part of a riverside renaissance are set to sink even further beneath the Severn's muddy waters?