message to critics of Government's plan to protect Devonshire Bay beach from seas surges and floodwater.

"There would be much more outrage if we did nothing,'' she exclaimed.

Mrs. DeCouto said a "do nothing'' policy would endanger the skirting public roadway and the foundations of nearby properties.

And she also answered criticism there had been no consultation over the scheme.

"If you consulted all the neighbours it would probably be a time consuming, fruitless exercise because it would lead to very conflicting opinions.

"We have to act in the best interests of everybody -- and that is what we've done.'' Assistant director of the Parks department, Mr. Bill Cook, also defended the project yesterday.

He said the beach would retain its prettiness once the scheme was complete in around two weeks.

Anger has flared over the latest in several attempts to protect the beach and fore shore from both sea surges and water off the skirting road.

The scheme involves putting rock-filled wire baskets on part of the beach off Devon Point Lane.

The gabion baskets -- topped with concealing boulders -- will act as a breakwater.

A 60-foot drain has already been installed along Devon Point Lane, along with a sump linked to a pipe. The pipe will channel water from the road into rocks by the sea, thus protecting the beach.

Several neighbours, however, have attacked the ongoing project, claiming their beach has been ruined.

They say it has become unsightly -- one describing it as a "pig's breakfast.'' Yesterday Mrs. DeCouto expressed surprise at the criticism, saying she had inspected the beach herself.

"Quite honestly I don't understand the complaints. I think it's quite clear what is going on down there,'' she said.

Mrs. DeCouto explained Hurricane Emily and subsequent storms had demonstrated the need for something to be done.

"Obviously it was our duty to remedy the situation in the best way we can,'' she said.

She added, however, no scheme could be guaranteed to work.

Mr. Cook said gabion baskets were effective because they allowed water to filter through them, and would not be easily dislodged.

He said when the scheme was complete the baskets would be hidden from view.

"There will also be some planting to make it look as attractive as possible.'' Mr. Cook dismissed one resident's claims hundreds of thousands of dollars had been spent over the years in trying to tackle the problem.

Works and Engineering Minister the Hon. Clarence Terceira blamed the protests on residents not being able to see the finished product.

GOVERNMENT GVT