Boston’s barrier will be a similar design to a mini version of the Thames Barrier on the River Haven, close to the Black Sluice pumping station if agency plans receive government funding.

A bid for funding the Boston Barrier and Haven flood defence project will be submitted in early 2012.

The flood defence, which would be located at Black Sluice pumping station, would protect about 10,000 homes and 900 businesses in the area and construction could begin in 2016.

Andy Baxendale, Environment Agency Northern Area Manager, said: “The tidal barrier is part of the Environment Agency’s long-term commitment to reduce flood risk to the people of Boston and to manage water levels through the town to allow safer navigation.

“The barrier will not only help to manage tidal flood risk and reduce the risk of flooding to thousands of homes and businesses.

“It will also provide opportunities to regenerate Boston’s waterways and will help achieve a significant milestone for the Fens Waterways Link vision to connect the cathedral cities of Lincoln, Ely and Peterborough.”