ESSEX County Council hopes to install a temporary flood barrier to protect homes in West Mersea.

A planning application has been submitted for a demountable flood defence barrier for times of heavy rain.

The barrier will be installed in Carriers Close, West Mersea.

Removable barriers are made to provide similar levels of protection to permanent flood defences but they can be removed when they are not needed.

They are made up of aluminium panels which are inserted into steel channels.

They can be configured for flood depths up to four metres.

However, some road closures would have to be put in place when the flood defence is set up.

The document said: “To enable a safe working area, Coast Road and lowest part of The Lane must be closed in accordance with the Traffic Management Plan before barrier delivery and assembly can begin.

“Cars in Carriers Close must leave the area before the flood barrier delivery to assembly points or remain in place during the flooding event.

“In certain cases cars parked may prevent the barrier installation.”

Colchester Council’s planning team will have the final say over plans.