FLOOD defence scheme proposals for Teignmouth have been supported by residents.
A public exhibition that ends today at the Tomorrow's Teignmouth Centre, Northumberland Place, sets out a number of options for a defence wall at the back beach. Though footfall has been low during the three-day exhibition, no-one has rejected the scheme. The move comes after the Environment Agency scrapped flood defence proposals two years ago in the face of huge public opposition. There is no money set aside for any new scheme. But the town council hopes that if a consensus can be reached in the town, the agency may look again. Visitors were asked to comment on a number of options for the defence line, including floodgates at New Quay and stepped access to the Fish Quay from Osmond Lane. Organisers want to know if the defence line should go in front of or behind Studio 38, Fish Quay and New Quay/Sand Quay. Some concern has been raised about the impact of a wall on summer-time attractions at the end of Queen Street. Initial estimates claim that the wall could be about 4ft high, but that could change by the time any scheme is implemented. Graham Walker, Teignbridge Council economic development officer who helped present the scheme, said: 'We have not had any outright opposition and, in fact, when we have had criticism, an alternative has been put forward. 'I think that feedback has been good because people recognise that some sort of defence is necessary, particularly after the October 2004 storm. 'This is a step forward and a recognition that something needs to be done. I just hope that enough people come forward to make this consultation meaningful,' he said. The Environment Agency has announced that Shaldon will benefit from £2.5 million extra funding for flood management in the south west. Money has also been set aside for schemes in Cornwall and Plymouth.