Multi-million pound plans to save crumbling cliffs in Essex

More than £19 million has been set aside for a major coastal defence and regeneration project along the Clacton and Holland coastline. The money, is being set aside by a number of partners.

Nick Turner, Tendring District Council’s (TDC) Cabinet Member for Environment and Coast Protection, said it is fantastic news and gives the initiative real momentum.

There is also at least £3 million committed by TDC and the same amount from Essex County Council (ECC) along with other contributions. Last week a Growth Fund Award of £512,000 was announced in Parliament.

Five options for the coastal defences have been drawn up by consultants Mott McDonald and have been out to public consultation for vital feedback.

So far 112 responses and been received with more to follow from those who want to have their say on the proposals.

These will be evaluated and will be included in a Project Appraisal Report due to be submitted to the Environment Agency’s Large Project Review Group in May, with a decision expected in late summer, early autumn.

Cllr Turner said that if the necessary approvals and funding are all in place work on the project, which is expected to cost up to £27 million, could start in the early weeks of 2015.