The Environment Agency today last month it intends to spend millions on flood protection schemes for Hayling Island, Emsworth, Southsea and Hilsea.

But while Hayling Island could see work start this year, Portsmouth could have to wait until at least 2014 for the improvements.

The Environment Agency has committed up to £150,000 to Havant Borough Council to continue a programme of dumping shingle along the beach at Eastoke.

It has also agreed to £6million plans – as reported on page one - to fund a flood protection scheme for Eastoke.

The work would involve improving groynes and "splash" walls, but is likely to mean Alan Priddy's dream of building a breakwater off the south-east corner of Hayling to protect the coastline and help regenerate the Island's tourism economy, looks dead in the water.

Hayling Island will also benefit as work is due to start later this year on a £1.4million scheme to improve defences at north Hayling and around Mill Rythe Holiday Village – as reported by the Islander last month.

Hayling East councillor David Collins said it was "fantastic news."

The Conservative said: "We are over the moon they are providing funding considering the climatic conditions with funding.

"Although the Environment Agency is spending £85milion on flood defences over the next year in the south, there remains a tight squeeze on available government cash because of the economic climate."