Some land next to the Humber has always flooded

Experts say returning 440 hectares (1,087 acres) of arable land at Alkborough, North Lincs, to the estuary will reduce flooding elsewhere.

The move will also create wetland habitats for local wildlife.

The scheme will be officially launched on Friday by Environment Minister Elliot Morley and the land should start to flood again in late summer 2006.

Mr Morley said taking down the flood defences at Alkborough would reduce the risk of flooding in the inner Humber and the tidal rivers that flow into it.

"Such long-term solutions are essential if we are to protect the lives and homes of people who live and work in the area as well as the many businesses that are based around the estuary," the minister added.

"We all know that the risks from flooding in the UK will increase as a result of the more extreme weather events prompted by climate change and it is important we are prepared."