Rising seas threaten coast homes

Thousands of properties along a stretch of the South coast are at risk from flooding and erosion within 100 years, according to the Environment Agency.

More than 2,200 homes and businesses in low lying areas between Pagham Harbour and West Wittering, West Sussex, face flooding as sea levels rise.

The agency also said erosion could cause almost 1,500 properties to be lost to the sea.

The predictions were made in a 100-year plan for the coast.

'Funding competition'

The agency has announced a set of recommendations to manage flooding and erosion risks along the coastal stretch, along with councils in Chichester and Arun.

The draft coastal strategy proposes the vast majority of properties should be protected to their current standard or better, but highlights funding pressures to build and maintain defences.

James Humphrys, 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."

A three-month public consultation, which ends on 29 August, will allow people to submit their views on the recommendations.