BEWDLEY'S multi-million pound flood defence scheme is making progress - and the first phase is on target to finish this month.

Bewdley Residents' Flood Committee was due to hold a meeting last night for members of bodies such as the town council, the chamber of trade and the town centre management forum to outline the latest on the programme to install defences alongside Severnside North and South.

The Environment Agency launched the project following the November 2000 floods, which were the worst in the town for more than 50 years.

Foundations are being installed along Severnside North for removable steel barriers which can be erected quickly in the event of a flood.

Work is being carried out on the sewerage system as part of the scheme.

The second phase for Severnside South is due to start later this year and the Environment Agency has said it will welcome input from residents on traffic and parking management during the works.

Project manager Roger Prestwood has also announced the demountable defence will not continue any further than Lax Lane, with Gardners Meadow set to be protected by a bund or a wall.