On the coastal side of this "flood defence", a wildlife habitat could be protected and enhanced, in accordance with its special status as a European Marine Site.

On the inland side, fertile agricultural land, homes and businesses would be defended from the worst effects of climate change and potentially devastating storms.

The embankment would not have the benefit of generating electricity from tidal power, but a railway line could run along it, taking traffic off congested roads, while encouraging tourism, especially eco-tourists attracted by the opportunity to observe thousands of birds from viewing platforms at strategic points along the route.

Because it would be raised above the coastal plain, roads and rivers could pass beneath it, with the installation of special gates to prevent flooding during exceptionally high tides.

I believe this scheme would receive more widespread support than the barrier and could be adapted to meet the threat of inundation by the sea on Norfolk's north-east coastline.

JOHN MAIDEN,

Hunstanton Road, Heacham