COASTAL defences in Minehead are being reinforced after erosion of a £3.7 million emergency scheme completed little more than two years ago.

About 4,000 tonnes of rock armour is being installed along a third of a 400-yard length of sea defences at The Warren, near the West Somerset and Minehead Golf Course.

Part of the King Charles III England Coast Path will be closed and diverted during the work, which is expected to take until April to complete.

The Environment Agency expects the work to slow the deterioration of sections of the sea defences on the frontage for up to the next 15 years.

The agency has been monitoring high tidal levels and flood risks in Somerset following a winter of extreme weather.

A spokesperson said: “We know the devastating impact that flooding can have, which is why protecting people and communities is our top priority.

“Our teams are carrying out improvement works to the coastal defences along The Warren in Minehead, in front of Minehead Golf Course.

“Starting in late February and running to April, the work involves installing 4,000 tonnes of rock armour to reinforce the raised shingle ridge defences.”

The rock armour is seen as a crucial step in maintaining the integrity of the coastline, particularly with increased vulnerability due to climate change and extreme weather events.

The agency said it would try to minimise any disruption during the construction period and would work closely with local stakeholders to keep them informed of progress and any necessary diversions.

In 2023, the agency saw 14,500 tonnes of granite rock used in a scheme designed to protect about 800 local homes and businesses from being flooded.

The rock armour was brought by ship from Scotland and moved to the beach by barge in a similar operation to one nearby in Blue Anchor.