Flood defence protection work in Margate begins

The council said it expected a further £5m to be spent on flood defences over the next two years

A project to improve flood defences in Margate is under way.

Thanet District Council said £1m had been secured by the Environment Agency to strengthen the Harbour Arm and build new walls and floodgates.

Work will also include building steps from the beach to the promenade to stop the risk of waves breaking over the sea wall.

The council said it expected the agency to spend a further £5m on flood defences over the next two years.

Councillor Roger Latchford, the cabinet member for regeneration, said the work would provide much needed protection.