14 June 2010 Last updated at 11:02 ET

Plan to control spreading marsh at Cleethorpes beach

It is hoped the management plan will be implemented by the end of the year

A management plan is being drawn up to control the spread of salt marsh at Cleethorpes beach, North East Lincolnshire Council has said.

The plan will consider how to manage the marsh while protecting the special habitat and wildlife in the area.

It is being put together by the local authority and conservation organisation Natural England.

There are concerns that hundreds of tourism jobs could be affected if the marsh is not contained.

The marsh is protected under UK and European law. It is feared that it could spread up to the resort's pier if it is left to grow.

North East Lincolnshire Council said it hoped the plan would be put in place by the end of the year.

Councillor Peter Burgess, the council's portfolio holder for the environment, said: "This is a significant step forward.

"The council recognises the importance of protecting the natural environment and will work with Natural England to ensure Cleethorpes continues to be a haven for wildlife.

"However, at the same time we need to recognise the growing concerns of the wider community and take positive action to control the spread of the salt marsh."

Regional director of Natural England, Peter Nottage, said: "We welcome the council's commitment to producing a management plan that will enhance the natural environment in the area and help meet the needs of the community."