Sea poses threat tohomes, says agency

It also says more than 2,200 homes could flood each year as sea levels rise.

The agency, together with Chichester and Arun District Councils, has suggested a strategy to manage the flood and erosion risks along that part of the West Sussex coast.

The Pagham to East Head draft coastal defence strategy recommends that the vast majority of properties should be protected to their current standard or better.

However, it also recognises that securing funding for building and maintaining defences is a serious and pressing issue for the area.

Views from the communities have already shaped the draft strategy and the Environment Agency and the district councils are now seeking further comments from residents on the proposed options before they are finalised.

James Humphrys, the Solent and South Downs area manager for the Environment Agency, said: 'The people who live and work in this area are faced with the very real threat of flooding and erosion.

'We believe that the draft strategy proposals can manage these risks but central government funding is limited and there is strong competition from around the country.

'We cannot prevent all flooding and erosion. The storm back in March that washed away the shingle beach at Medmerry and flooded the caravan site was a stark reminder for us all.

'With our climate changing and sea levels rising, the risks and the number of people affected will only increase.'

Councillor Pieter Montyn, the environment portfolio holder for Chichester District Council, said: 'The draft strategy is the result of an intense period of study, and I am pleased to see that the public's comments during earlier consultation have had a significant impact on the draft strategy now before us.

'I urge people to become involved in the discussions which will lead to greater understanding of the serious issues and decisions that are still to be made.'

This is a draft strategy and no final decisions have been made.

Residents can have their say before Friday, August 29 to ensure that their opinions are considered when the final strategy is produced later this year.

Exhibitions are to be held at the following venues:

n St Ninian's Church Hall, Pagham '“ Thursday, June 19 from 1pm to 8pm

n Selsey Town Hall '“ Friday, June 20 and Wednesday, August 6 from 1pm to 8pm

n West Wittering Cricket Pavilion '“ Friday, July 4 from 1pm to 8pm.