THE fight to resume a DIY coastal defence scheme - which was thwarted by a protection order - has been given a major boost with some unexpected support.

By David Lennard

THE fight to resume a DIY coastal defence scheme - which was thwarted by a protection order - has been given a major boost with some unexpected support.

Retired engineer Peter Boggis's bid to protect cliff-top homes at Easton Bavents, near Southwold, had to be put on hold when English Nature said it wanted to extend an SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) order to cover the stretch of coastline.

Mr Boggis and local residents have fought the plans and now Waveney District Council has also added its opposition.

The council has previously been in dispute with Mr Boggis, claiming he needed planning permission for his work, which consists of installing thousands of tonnes of clay and soil in front of the cliffs.

English Nature's consultation period on the SSI proposals ended earlier this month and the Government agency is set to confirm or withdraw the status in the summer.

Last night, Mr Boggis, who began the DIY project in 2003, said the support of the council came as a major boost to his campaign

“The district council is an important body and one that English Nature will have to listen to,” he said.

“There is no doubt that there is strong opposition to the SSSI being extended to cover Easton Bavents and it is vital that work to protect homes begins as soon as possible.”

Council leader Mark Bee said: “We've an opportunity to put forward our objections and this needs to be put forward with all speed and all force by this council.”