Even more homes are planned for a harbour development which has already been branded a serious flood risk.

Environment Agency bosses have slated plans to build 60 more houses at Sovereign Harbour, Eastbourne.

They say more lives will be put in danger if McLean Homes is granted planning permission.

The harbour development was built in 1992 when, it is alleged, the owners promised to move shingle to build up adequate sea defences.

But the agency says they did not fulfil their pledge, leaving buildings and residents exposed to tidal flooding.

Harbour owner Carillion says it has carried out work to build up defences even though it does not believe it is its responsibility.

Now developers have submitted a planning application to build 60 three and four-bedroom houses on Pacific Drive.

Alan Hopkins, customer services manager for the Environment Agency, said: "The development is in a vulnerable area from flooding. At present we would say the defences are inadequate.

"We have not had assurances about long-term maintenance of the development.

"It might be OK today, but what about tomorrow? Who can tell what might happen with the changes in sea levels?

"We are still waiting for a promise from the owners that the defences will be bolstered to prevent homes being washed away in the event of a flood."

McLean Homes says the houses have been designed with the risk of flooding in mind.

A spokesman said: "The site is to be graded down from the beach frontage to the road so that any floodwater will drain through the site and discharge into the harbour.

"There will also be no habitable rooms on the ground floor of the dwellings fronting the beach."

The plans are likely to be approved by Eastbourne councillors tomorrow.