Adur District Council has approved plans for new defences in Shoreham to guard against flooding from the River Adur, aiming to protect nearby homes and businesses from storm damage.
The project will focus on the stretch of the A259 Brighton Road next to Sussex Yacht Club.
Cllr Becky Allinson, Adur’s cabinet member for regeneration and economy, said: “These flood defences are absolutely vital for the protection of those parts of Shoreham that are the most vulnerable during storms.
“I’m delighted that after years of obstacles, this project will now be able to move forward so that we can help keep our residents and businesses safe from flooding.”
The proposed defences will take the form of an up to 2.2-metre-high steel-piled wall made from concrete, brick and flint.
Flood gates will be included to maintain access to the yacht club and protect the public right of way.
A contractor is expected to be appointed in early 2026, with construction set to begin in the spring and finish by autumn.
The council has worked closely with Sussex Yacht Club to resolve issues around public access and site entry.
Design changes and rising construction costs have increased the project’s price tag by about £950,000, but the Environment Agency has agreed to cover the additional amount.
This means there will be no extra cost to Adur residents.
Once complete, a new pathway will run along the north side of the flood wall, linking Mariner Point to Shoreham footbridge and improving pedestrian access.
Rising sea levels mean Shoreham is under increasing risk of further flood damage during severe weather.
The council has described the scheme as essential for protecting the town’s low-lying areas from future storm events.