Work is about to start on the second phase of a £60m sea defence scheme – with the promise that disruption will be kept to a minimum.

Letters have been sent to hundreds of residents in and around Dymchurch detailing the works and an exhibition to display the plans opens at the Plater Hall, the former library building, in Dymchurch High Street next Friday, January 16.

It will be open from noon until 7pm. Villagers can view the plans to talk to members of the project team about the next stage of the project which will offer improved protection to more than 2,500 homes.

Drop-in

The hall will then be open on regularly as a drop-in centre when the main building period starts at the end of February/early March.

The final stage of the flood defence scheme from High Knocke to Dymchurch Redoubt is planned to be finished during 2011. Preliminary works on site, including the setting up of compounds and machinery, is due to start at the end of January.

The first phase of the sea defence scheme north of Dymchurch town was completed in May at a cost of £31m.

Clive Older, of the Environment Agency, said: “We are continuing to work closely with local residents, traders, Dymchurch Parish Council and Shepway District Council to ensure the minimum of inconvenience to residents and local businesses while this essential flood defence work takes place.

“We will not be working along the amenity beach frontage closest to the town centre during the summer period.

“There will therefore be access to the beach during this time.”

Traffic lights will operate when materials are being delivered to the site. Noise and vibration will be monitored.