Henry Cator, chairman of the Norfolk Strategic Flood Alliance, believes Centre Port's plans to create the £2bn barrier stretching from Hunstanton to Skegness should be "considered very seriously".

He believes the scheme, which also includes a container port and a new road linking the two counties, could help secure the future of the Fens by protecting it against flooding and boosting the economy.

What the tidal barrage could look like, stretching out from Hunstanton (Image: Centre Port)

His support comes despite environmental groups warning it would have "catastrophic consequences" for the internationally important Wash and its wildlife.

"There is understandably lots of opposition from environmentalists, as this will change the Wash forever," he said.

"But it could have huge economic benefits as well as protecting the Fens from flooding.

"I think we should consider it very seriously as a scheme and on balance, I’d say the pros may outweigh the cons."

READ MORE: Developer reveals huge move in Wash barrage scheme (in front of 16 people and a dog)

A slide shown to Hunstanton Town Council illustrating how........

© Eastern Daily Press