The threat of sea level rise due to climate change is a key issue tackled. Predictions are that sea level rise will increase from its current rate of nearly 2mm per year to an average rate of 6mm, which will lower the standard of the existing flood defences around the Humber.

The Agency has already completed a £7.1m scheme to improve existing flood defences and create new wetland habitat near the village of Paull, east of Hull, and work is underway to develop a larger scale project at Alkborough, on the south bank of the Humber. Improvement work has also been carried out at Hull, Brough, and Pyewipe, near Grimsby and Goole.

More recently, the Agency has announced proposals for the realignment of flood banks near Skeffling, on the north bank of the Humber, and a second site at Donna Nook, on the south bank, is likely to be brought forward early in the programme.

Humber Project Executive Philip Winn said: 'Managed realignment of some lengths of bank is an important part of the Environment Agency's long-term strategy for managing the flood defences around the Humber estuary. We are looking at where we need to improve existing defences and the associated action required to conserve the Humber's wildlife riches.

This year we plan to seek formal approvals from the Government to allow the full programme of work to start.'

Flood defences around the Humber protect more than 300,000 people who live and work on the river's floodplain, which contains billions of pounds worth of property, high-grade farmland and the country's largest complex of ports.

The Environment Agency is developing the proposals for the work needed for each length of defence and when it will be required. This will amount to an investment of over £400 million during the next 30 years or so.

The Agency has begun to talk with the farmers and landowners with interests in the proposed managed realignment sites, including discussions about the future purchase of land.

Philip added: 'Our aim is to provide flood defences that give an assured level of protection while working with the Humber Estuary's natural processes.

The Agency is committed to working with the public, industry and others to ensure the success of this project and bring major benefits to those who live and work in the Humber area.'