THE Environment Agency (EA) has ruled out any further changes to the Hereford Flood Defence Scheme.

EA officials, who started preparatory work last week, made the statement yesterday (Wednesday) when they responded to a plea from the Hereford Campaign for Better Flood Defences to alter plans near the Watershed arts centre.

The protestors' proposals would require planning applications and the EA statement said such a long process was simply not possible at such a late date.

"We have listened to the concerns of residents of Hereford regarding the proposed flood defence scheme throughout the planning process," the EA statement read.

"Some changes to the scheme have taken place as a result of concerns received. The proposals for the riverside wall have been amended to reduce its impact on views of the river and Hereford Cathedral.

"Very recently we have amended the proposals near the Leisure Pool to reduce the number of trees affected and to incorporate a footpath for children using the pool.

"However, we have to try and balance the needs and views of many different people. While under the current planning approval we are able to refine some details of the scheme, such as wall finishes and tree planting, significant changes would require a re-application for planning approval.

"Re-submitting a new planning application would delay commencement of the scheme and could put at risk the funding allocation for several years.

"We would not wish to jeopardise the scheme and consequently cannot, at this stage, consider any significant changes to our current proposals."