BUSINESSES in Bewdley say they are facing heavy losses - even closure - after plans to scrap free parking on a riverside street were given the green light.

A total of 82 firms out of 84 signed a petition protesting against the removal of about 40 spaces on Severnside South as part of a flood defence scheme.

Stan Martin, of angling shop SR Lewis on Severnside South, said the decision would "shut us down".

Mr Martin, who organised the petition, said: "This is the last remaining car parking facility in the town which is free. If it is taken away then there will be nothing left. We think it is disgraceful.

"Bewdley is being choked to death."

The spaces are to go as part of the long-awaited flood defence scheme for Severnside South, due to begin in the autumn.

The Environment Agency, which has devised the plans, said the current parking area needed to be clear at all times so demountable flood barriers could be quickly erected in the event of a flood warning.

But traders say the scheme, passed by planners at Wyre Forest District Council on Thursday, would have a negative impact on business.

John Instance, manager at The Old Bank Craft Studio on Severnside South, said: "It will be detrimental to businesses in Bewdley because people will have to park elsewhere, which will mean fewer spaces.

"The last time the road was closed to parking was about 10 years ago when it was dug up and our trade dropped by a third."

Stephen Brown, who runs Stevanco's hairdressers on the riverside road, said: "Trade will go down here if they make it a no-parking zone. I am concerned about my business and others in the town.

"I think gents haircuts will take a hammering because they come in for a quick cut and park outside."

However, suggestions that parking could be saved by using an alternative scheme were rejected by the Environment Agency.

A spokeswoman said: "It is vital we have clear and unhindered access to the quayside - we may not be able to get the barriers up in time if we have to start moving cars."

She added: "Time is of the essence. When a flood warning is issued, we must be able to act quickly if we are to protect the people of Bewdley successfully."