A village's desperate bid to build a much-needed sea defence has cleared a final administrative hurdle - but concerns remain about funding the project.

Hemsby, which has been battling the waves for decades, is now facing a massive challenge to raise £9m to pay for a rock berm which local campaigners say will slow down the rate of erosion. 

The scheme has taken an important step forward after being granted a licence by the Marine Management Organisation (MMO).

After getting planning permission last year, this was the final piece of the puzzle for the 1.3km long rock berm, which will be built into the southern edge of Hemsby beach and has a 20-year lifespan.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: James Bensly, borough and county councillor, on the beach at Hemsby.James Bensly, borough and county councillor, on the beach at Hemsby. (Image: Liz Coates)

James Bensly, borough and county councillor for the village, said: "My initial thoughts are this is wonderful, this is great news and very needed for Hemsby.

"I finally feel as though we're getting somewhere because we have felt very exhausted by the procedure and the bureaucracy."

READ MORE: Homes in Hemsby demolished amid Norfolk coast erosion

In August, Great Yarmouth Borough Council (GYBC) lodged an application with the MMO for a licence to carry out works on the rock berm.

On March 14, the MMO wrote a letter to GYBC granting the marine licence for the rock berm. 

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Lance Martin's house is precariously close to falling at Hemsby during the high winds and high tide. Photo: Denise Bradley. Lance Martin's house is precariously close to falling at Hemsby during the high winds and high tide. Photo: Denise Bradley. (Image: Denise Bradley)

Mr Bensly said the next steps are collaborating with stakeholders and partners, including landowners, in funding the scheme.

"The village moves onto the next challenge and that is raising the funds," he said.

READ MORE: Temporary sea defences to be built in Hemsby after funding success

"Now we have a clear direction. It's up to us to knuckle down and find the funding, but a massive hurdle has been jumped."

Earlier this month, spring tides and strong winds resulted in the demolition of five homes that were at risk of collapsing onto the beach. 

The house belonging to Lance Martin has not faced the same fate, while Hemsby Lifeboat still cannot access the beach.