A major consultation exercise is to begin on plans to improve coast defences in Aberystwyth.

The plans will go on display at Aberystwyth Bandstand tomorrow (Wednesday) between noon and 8pm, and on Thursday from 9am to 4.30pm.

UKIP AM Neil Hamilton said: “We have all seen the devastation and damage caused to our coastline over the last couple of years by the storms, and I am delighted to see plans are in place to look at how to make improvements in Aberystwyth.

“Obviously we can’t control the weather but we can take steps to try and minimise the resulting damage.

“It is heartbreaking to see people’s homes and businesses being flooded and we must try and prevent this happening on such a regular basis.

"I was a student at Aberystwyth for six years and I can well remember the storms battering the promenade year in and year out. People living in coastal communities need reassuring that measures will be taken to protect them against the worst excesses of our weather.

“Ceredigion County council is holding two events to show their proposed plans for the Coastal Defence Scheme for Aberystwyth and are seeking views from the public between now and 9 November.

"I do encourage residents and businesses to have a look at the proposals and make sure they have their say.”

Cllr Dafydd Edwards, Cabinet member with responsibility for highways and environmental services, said: “Recent severe storm events have seen damage to the coastal defences and large amounts of sand, stones and water thrown up on to the Promenade and Marine Terrace/Victoria Terrace.

“As a result, we realise we need to improve the infrastructure to avoid excessive damage during such events and therefore we are looking to bolster the sea defences. This is the opportunity to give views on a proposed Coastal Defence Scheme for Aberystwyth.”

As well as considering the idea for improving the current coastal defences, there will also be an opportunity to see some other ideas for the promenade.

If you are unable to attend but want more information and to have your say, go to www.ceredigion.gov.uk/consultations.