Dear Sir – I would like to respond personally to the letter written by Mr Holbourn dated 17 January and to other recent correspondence regarding the New Road Scheme in Worcester.

During the floods of 2014 and 2007, the impact to local businesses was huge. A BBC anchorman even presented the news from the bridge, proclaiming that Worcester was closed for business.

Given that improving the economy is a key priority for this county, this was far from ideal.

The current work will reduce the likelihood of flooding in the future. The works will improve drainage when there is flooding on surrounding land and the works will help traffic management to be more flexible when it is needed, enabling two way traffic along New Road, Worcester Bridge and Bridge Street up to Deansway when Hylton Road and North Parade are flooded.

The £1.2million scheme is being funded through the Local Growth Deal - a fund from central government allocated for projects that benefit the local area and economy.

With regards to the specific points in Mr Holbourn's letter, a double wrought iron access gate, similar in design to the fencing and gates located in other areas of Cripplegate Park, will replace a section of hedging that has been removed.

This will enable vehicular access to the park which will be required to maintain the new drainage system. Semi mature hedging will be planted to

replace the rest of the current opening which is needed for the works access.

 With regards to tennis courts 1 and 2 within the park, which are currently being used as a site compound, these will be reinstated and refurbished.

Ken Pollock

Cabinet member with responsibility for economy and Infrastructure