Layers welcome in the upper parts (7)

I believe the answer is:

heavens

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'upper parts' is the definition.
'heavens' can be an answer for 'parts' (heaven is a kind of part). I am not sure about the 'upper' bit.

'layers welcome in' is the wordplay.
'layers' becomes 'hens' (I've seen this in another clue).
'welcome' becomes 'ave' ('ave' is a Latin greeting).
'in' is an insertion indicator.
'hens' going around 'ave' is 'HEAVENS'.

'the' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for heavens that I've seen before include "Expression of surprise" , "the blue" , "Sky - good grief!" , "Goodness" , "Places of supreme happiness" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

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