A multi-million pound project to improve Jaywick sea defences is ahead of schedule.
The scheme, costing more than £8 million, should be completed in the next six weeks and will protect 2,000 homes from the sea.
In 1953 the defences were breached with devastating results. Caravans were swept away and 35 residents died.
This scheme complements existing work carried out during the 1980s when four rock fishtail breakwaters were installed along the coast.
The new defences have added further breakwaters including one off shore which was constructed to protect a bay which had scientific interest to geologists.
A three kilometre pipe has also been laid to supply the beaches with sand and silt
Ian Fairgrieve, from contractors HAM Dredging, said the work would be completed early thanks to good weather.
Tendring councillor Roy Smith, a member of the Flood Defence Committee, said: "We are particularly pleased about the situation. People have been very appreciative."
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