PLANS to improve the River Severn's flood-warning system have been praised by councillors - but they are asking the Environment Agency to review flood-defence work.

Wyre Forest District Council has been asked to comment on the EA's draft Fluvial River Severn Flood Risk Management Strategy, which looks at flood risk over a 50-year period.

It is supporting a new floodline alarm system, which is due to be introduced this autumn, to improve the way warnings are given out to those people at risk.

Councillor James Dudley, Wyre Forest District Council cabinet member for the environment and economic regeneration said: "The EA's draft strategy is comprehensive and we welcome the opportunity to comment.

"The council fully supports introducing an improved flood warning system."

However, councillors will be asking for more detailed studies of flood defences at Stourport Road in Bewdley, and Sandy Lane and Mart Lane, in Stourport-on-Severn.

"Beales Corner is important from a community point of view and flooding at Sandy Lane would have an economic impact. We are asking them to look into whether more permanent flood defence work is needed in Mart Lane as it is earmarked for regeneration," Coun Dudley said.

The recommendations were made at a recent meeting of Wyre Forest District Council's cabinet.

last Thursday.