PLANS to build flood defences in Poole could take a step forward this week if the council approves a funding request for half a million pounds.

Cllr John Rampton, portfolio holder for environment has been asked to give the go-ahead for Borough of Poole to apply for £500,000 from the Environment Agency.

With sea levels predicted to rise significantly in the next century, the council’s Strategic Flood Risk Assessment identified Creekmoor, Hamworthy, and Canford Magna as areas of Poole at high risk of flooding. Between 201 and 500 properties have been estimated to be under threat.

Borough of Poole has applied to the Marine Management Organisation for a licence to undertake works to flood defences at Creekmoor Channel and Sterte Channel.

The aim of the project is to construct a flap valve at the entrance of each channel to mitigate a combination of tidal and surface water flooding and tidal surges to the surrounding areas.

It will increase the volume of the channels by not allowing tidal water to enter the channel, creating more space for surface water flooding to collect in times of heavy rainfall.

Cllr John Rampton, portfolio holder for environment, said it is a "highly effective scheme and represents excellent value for money."

He added: "The application has involved an assessment of the flood threat, and calculations have shown us that putting in flap valves will give us full protection up until 2060.

"Any additional flood defence works will be built on top of these works."

Construction of the flood defences is set to take place next summer to ensure minimal disturbance is caused to the local bird population, and will take around two months to complete.

Cllr Rampton is due to approve the application request to the Environment Agency on Thursday.

He has also been asked to approve £30,000 funding for the project from Wessex Water and an additional £40,000 from the council.