TEIGNMOUTH'S much needed flood protection scheme is being championed by the area's MP.

Anne Marie Morris, the Conservative member for the Newton Abbot constituency, says she is pushing the government to allocate funds so it can go ahead.

'It would significantly reduce the risk of flooding for over 650 properties.

'It is currently on the development list, and I will continue to make representations to the minister responsible to ensure the funding is forthcoming, so the scheme can go ahead as soon as possible.

She welcomed the news that the £8.4 million flood scheme at Shaldon will be finished this year and said a similar project across the estuary was equally deserving.

The Teignmouth scheme will protect the low lying town centre area from predicted rising sea levels, and until it is completed, potential re-development areas remain 'blighted', and some properties may find it difficult or expensive to obtain insurance cover.

The scheme involves a wall around the back beach and harbour area.