A new £15 million flood defence scheme to protect storm-lashed Selsey has been unveiled.

There was uproar when the Environment Agency suggested giving up large tracts of land to flooding, but now experts are recommending the existing shingle bank which protects the Medmerry Beach from the sea, should be moved back and a second bank constructed behind it.

But the agency warned several houses may still have to be abandoned.

It has spent thousands of pounds during recent winters to build up the beach to protect the West Sands Caravan Park and farmland.

There is widespread support in Selsey for a new defence scheme because of the importance of the caravan holiday trade to the town's economy.

Environment Agency spokesman Ray Kemp said: "The suggestion to allow the area to flood was only one option."