COASTAL chiefs are hoping to start new defence work in a fresh bid to protect a vulnerable cliff face against the power of the North Sea.

The EADT reported in May how homeowners living in North End Avenue, Thorpeness, near Aldeburgh, were becoming increasingly concerned.

Heavy storms gave the beach such a pounding that tonnes of material was swept out to sea and exposed the old defences.

Suffolk Coastal District Council acted quickly to try and reinforce the cliff face – spending �37,000 on protective work.

However, it does not seem to have done the trick and in recent weeks the erosion has continued apace.

As a result the authority wants to provide additional robust defences in a bid to prevent the cliff receding further – proposals that will be discussed at a planning meeting next week.

Andy Smith, cabinet member for coastal protection and deputy leader of Suffolk Coastal District Council, said there had also been constructive discussions with local residents about having a scheme jointly funded by them and the authority.

“Work is being carried out to provide short-term and immediate protection to the area immediately south of the old sea defences to help prevent any further damage this winter,” he said.

“The work needs to be officially approved but we hope to start in early September and finish it in four weeks.

“We are working closely with the Environment Agency to develop plans that would provide longer-term protection.”