LARGE areas of Chester, Ellesmere Port and Neston could be regularly submerged in water by 2030, according to new data.

A map created by Climate Central, an independent group of scientists and journalist, projects that several areas will be below the annual flood level within seven years’ time.

This model is based on current projections and peer-reviewed science in leading journals.

The annual flood level is defined as a flood flow event that occurs at a high frequency, meaning that there is a greater than 50 percent chance of a flood of at least this level occurring in any given year.

This would mean that large areas of the coastline at Parkgate, Stanlow and Elton could be submerged during a flood event, and parts of Blacon, Handbridge and Saltney could also be in danger.

There are also risks for areas such as Frodsham, and even low-lying inland villages like Bridge Trafford.

The analysis uses maps global-scale datasets for elevation and tides in addition to sea level rise projections, the most at risk areas are then displayed in red.

These maps are not based on physical storm and flood simulations and do not take into account factors such as erosion, future changes in the frequency or intensity of storms, inland flooding, or contributions from rainfall or rivers.

A spokesman for Climate Central said: “As these maps incorporate big datasets, which always include some error, these maps should be regarded as screening tools to identify places that may require deeper investigation of risk.

“Our approach makes it easy to map any scenario quickly and reflects threats from permanent future sea level rises as well.”

The interactive map is available to view on the Climate Central website.