Emergency measures are being drawn up to stop widespread flooding in Maldon.

The Environment Agency has declared the seawall in Fullbridge too weak to hold expected rainfall this winter.

And there is a high risk of the River Blackwater breaching the tidal defence.

Urgent repairs are now set to go ahead within three months before more rain sets in.

The agency said up to 100 metres of the seawall, only a few metres from one of the main arteries into the town - Market Hill - has suffered serious erosion from the last bout of flooding.

"Further erosion could lead to failure of the flood defence bank and widespread flooding.

"The works required to maintain the flood defence are considered to have emergency status," an agency statement said.

Residents and businesses in the area have already suffered from the floods and are now being asked to choose a course of action to halt further damage.

Councillors voted on Tuesday night to recommend the steel-reinforced wall, strengthening the defences without disturbing buildings on the riverfront.

But the Environment Agency - which hopes to complete works before the winter - still has to consult residents, businesses and district councillors before a decision on the works can be made.

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