Work on a vital £8 million sea defence scheme is likely to start in January 2002.

Marine consultants Posford Duvivier are drawing up proposals to rebuild the storm-battered old sea wall between Ovingdean and Brighton Marina. Work on the section between Ovingdean and Saltdean has already been completed.

The scheme also includes renewing the Undercliff Walk and the concrete splash wall at the foot of the cliffs, putting granite boulders at the foot of the wall.

Twelve groynes will be renovated, and beach shingle built up.

Steps will also be built so people can get on to the beaches.

Brighton Kemp Town MP Des Turner has welcomed the proposals, saying: "The weather recently has been a reminder of how harsh and unforgiving our autumns and winters can be. These proposals offer substantially increased protection to the Undercliff, which is popular with tourists and locals alike."

Dr Turner, a scientist, said: "I am convinced less storm debris will land on the Undercliff if the work goes ahead, which will improve access all round the year. I would like to encourage anyone with specialist marine or shoreline biology expertise to examine the proposals carefully."

The Undercliff Walk and sea wall between Black Rock and Saltdean were built by unemployed miners 70 years ago.

Most of the cost will be met by the Government.