Work to help protect Cromer from rising sea levels and storm damage has come to a close after more than two years.

The £8m scheme, carried out by contractors VolkerStevin, was increased significantly to include repairs to the sea defences and foreshore damaged by the exceptional storm surge of December 2013.

With a pause for the summer seasons, the focus has been on ensuring Cromer Promenade, the sea defence foundations, walls and groynes are strong enough to help protect the town for future years.

Councillor Angie Fitch-Tillett said: 'This has been a major piece of work and it's been important to the district council to make sure that access has been maintained to the pier and the RNLI lifeboat station during the work, and I'm pleased to say we have achieved that.

'I would like to thank the traders and businesses for their understanding throughout this work, which has been focused on protecting the town for future years.'

The groynes and parts of the sea wall date back to 1836 which although they have been regularly maintained and enhanced over the years need regular works to ensure they remain fit for purpose.

Particular care has been taken in both designing and constructing the new seawalls, many of which are listed structures. The work to maintain and refurbish the promenade and embedded artwork has improved the appearance of the promenade as well as providing a stronger surface.

A smaller project to enhance the groynes will now be worked up following the completion of the major works to Cromer sea defences.