Flood protection work completed in coastal village

A multi-million project to protect vulnerable communities from tidal flooding has been completed

A £12m project to protect vulnerable communities from tidal flooding has been completed.

Tidal flooding has affected communities at Cockett Wick, between Jaywick and Seawick in Essex, for several years.

However, the Environment Agency has said the Cockett Wick Seawall Improvement scheme would protect more than 3,000 homes and businesses along the coastline.

Floods minister Emma Hardy said: "The completion of the Cockett Wick Seawall Improvement project ensures thousands of homes and businesses in one of the most vulnerable areas of the country will receive better protection from the growing threat of tidal flooding."

The Environment Agency has said the sea wall will protect thousands of homes and businesses on the coastline

A spokesperson for the agency said the addition of 14,000 tonnes of Norwegian granite, as well as the installation of more than 150 steel piles and 330 metres (1,083ft) of reinforced concrete footpath and seawall, had been completed.

John Lindsay, Essex Coastal engineer for the agency, said: "The work will make a real difference to providing long-term flood protection for the local community, protecting homes and businesses and supporting the future growth, investment and regeneration of Jaywick.

"We would like to thank the local community for their patience, support and cooperation during the completion of the works."