Coastal Defence

For centuries human intervention along the coastline has modified the effects of natural coastal processes. Measures have been taken in many locations to protect urban areas and low-lying agricultural land from flooding and erosion by the sea. Coastal defence structures - seawalls, groynes and breakwaters are widespread and obvious. The replenishment of beaches and the stabilisation of dunes are examples of more recent, less obvious defence techniques.

Traditionally, coast and flood protection works have been implemented in a piecemeal fashion, either in response to a recognised threat to an existing village or town, or as part of a new development scheme. The authorities responsible for coast defence and flood protection, district councils and the Environment Agency, have also tended to look at the issue within their own boundaries. The possibility that measures taken on one section of the coast may affect adjoining areas was either not recognised, or not considered in sufficient depth.

With a better understanding of coastal processes gained over recent years, the Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food (MAFF) has produced guidance for defence authorities to co-operate in preparing plans for the future defence of their areas. These plans seek to treat the coastline and the defence requirements in a more integrated, sustainable and strategic manner.

A sustainable coastal defence policy is one which provides adequate protection against flooding and erosion in a manner that is technically, environmentally and economically acceptable, both at the time any associated measures are implemented, and in the future.

The Environment Agency and the District Councils have powers to carry out such coast protection and flood defence schemes. MAFF will grant aid worthwhile schemes which are consistent with the Shoreline Management Plan.