The scheme would protect Aberaeron's population for the next 100 years

Coastal protection work is needed at Aberaeron's north beach to protect the 185 residential and 56 non-residential properties at risk from the sea.

Work needs to be done because the current sea defences are in a poor condition according to Paul Morgan of Ceredigion Council's highways department.

The �9.5 project would then provide protection for Aberaeron residents for the next hundred years.

Without improvement works, beach levels will continue to lower and the pressure on the defences will increase resulting in further deterioration and flooding during storms will increase Paul Morgan, council officer

A report by Mr Morgan also revealed that any scheme to protect Aberaeron's promenade would be in the hands of the Welsh assembly who would have to fund most of any development.

"The southern section of the frontage, protected by a seawall is subject to overtopping during storm conditions," said Mr Morgan.

Flooding

"The clay bank protecting the northern end of the frontage is suffering from erosion due to wave action and is at risk of breaching."

Because the land lying near the shore is low-lying a breach in the sea defences would flood 185 residential and 56 non-residential properties within that flood plain.

"Without improvement works, beach levels will continue to lower and the pressure on the defences will increase resulting in further deterioration and flooding during storms will increase," he said.

The council's preferred option is to protect beach frontage by implementing a scheme that will give Aberaeron a 1 in 100 year standard of protection against flooding.

This work will include replacement of the groyne field and seawall refurbishment.

Councillor Mansel Hughes said that the whole of the town would support the scheme if it goes ahead.

"Nevertheless it is early days and we have yet to see detailed plans about what work will take place," he added.

The matter will now go before the assembly for approval before detailed design work on the project begins.