WORK has begun on a controversial scheme to prevent Kidderminster town centre from flooding.

Crossley Park developer Castlemore Securities is building a flood storage area in Puxton Marsh on behalf of the Environment Agency by putting embankments across the River Stour.

The scheme was given permission by Wyre Forest District Council planners last year despite fears that it would lead to flooding in Wolverley.

Castlemore took advantage of the closure of the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal due to the foot and mouth crisis in February and March to start works to replace the culvert where the Blakedown Brook passes underneath.

Trees have also been removed along the line of the embankments ahead of the main works to avoid the start of the bird nesting season.

A spokesman for the Environment Agency said: "Both English Nature and Wyre Forest District Council are supportive of the proposals because in addition to providing increased standards of flood protection, the scheme also provides the opportunity to improve the Puxton and Stourvale marshes."

It is hoped storing flood water there will boost the drying-out marshes, both sites of special scientific interest, by preserving them as wetlands sanctuaries.

The main part of the scheme will get underway next month, while the agency is also planning to consult with "interested parties" over minor works to increase the capacity of the channel at certain town centre locations.