The Environment Agency is to review its options for a tidal defence scheme in Devon.

The proposed Starcross and Cockwood scheme on the Exe Estuary is estimated to reduce flood risk to over 600 residential and commercial properties.

The scheme is being accelerated as part of the March 2015 Budget announcement regarding the six-year flood defence programme.

The coastal villages lie on the west side of the Exe Estuary and the area has a history of flooding.

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The agency plans to identify a number of options to address the risk of flooding, with these decisions being made at the next stage of the project following public consultation.

Further site investigations and discussions will help the Environment Agency to refine the options and to identify the most appropriate type of defences needed at each location.

Martin Davies, Flood and Coastal Risk Management Advisor, said: "In addition to managing current flood risk, the scheme will also help to reduce the risk of future flooding resulting from climate change. The proposed timings will see the detailed design stage commencing from autumn 2015."

(LM)