Work on the new bridge's foundations will start in October

Boscastle was devastated in August 2004 when millions of gallons of water deluged the village after torrential summer rain.

The �4.6m scheme includes a replacement for the Lower Bridge, but initial plans were thrown out when residents said the structure was too large and too modern.

The altered design has been approved by North Cornwall District Council.

The Environment Agency said it had worked closely with the local community, the National Trust's architectural panel and the Boscastle Bridge Working Group to ensure the design was sympathetic with its surroundings.

I have given my views to my local councillor and I don't feel I've been represented Ross Yates, Boscastle resident

Spokesman Gordon Trapmore said: "Today's decision is good news as the replacement bridge is an essential element of the scheme."

But some local people remain unhappy with the revised plans and want a more traditional stone bridge.

Resident Ross Yates told BBC News his opinions have not been listened to.

"I have given my views to my local councillor and I don't feel I've been represented," he said

Peter Templar who owns the Riverside Hotel said the plans had been "pushed through without residents agreeing".

'Emotive subject'

Anne Knight said while she accepted the public had been consulted on the revised plans, she believes councillors had merely voted "for the best of a bad option".

Ms Knight said advice had been sought from a specialist on planning consent and an appeal or judicial review may be considered.

Council spokeswoman Annie Moore said the bridge was a very emotive subject, but residents had been widely consulted.