A new 12-month pilot scheme launched by a government agency means that you can now 'talk' to Exmouth's new tidal defences.

The Environment Agency, together with a company called Hello Lamp Post, have put QR codes on parts of the tidal defences for residents and visitors to learn more by texting an AI 'chatbot'.

How can I chat to the sea wall?

Use your smartphone's camera and point it at the QR code, or text the number on the sign.

You can reportedly find out why the defences are needed and how they reduce flood risk, and you can give feedback on what you think about the tidal defence scheme.

The first QR codes are up at Estuary View car park and the Alexandra Terrace junction, and more are due to go up soon.

Kate Pearson, Flood Resilience Engagement Advisor at The Environment Agency said: "Community engagement is key to our flood defence work, we're always looking for better ways to reach people, to find out what residents want and what they think of the work we're doing.

"Hello Lamp Post lets us reach people when they're actually standing next to our defences, they can give us feedback without the need for a physical meeting so it's a really covid secure way to engage with people."

Cllr Geoff Jung, East Devon District Council portfolio holder for Coast, Country and Environment said:

"Now the contractors are nearly finished on the Exmouth Tidal Defence Scheme this clever piece of modern technology will explain to people all the whys, the what and the what ifs for this scheme and explains to the user why the scheme was required to help protect the town, its businesses and residents. We are pleased to offer our support for this exciting initiative."

The £12m tidal defence scheme is due to be completed later this year.

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