Future of sea defences between Hunstanton and Snettisham

A new report into the future of defences between Hunstanton and Snettisham by the Environment Agency (EA) states that by restricting access the shoreline can be protected.

The blueprint, drawn up by environmental consultants Jacobs Engineering says the shingle ridge is currently in a good condition.

But it concludes that beach recharge - when shingle is brought in from elsewhere to help replace material washed away by winter storms - is no longer viable because it would cost between £5 and £8 million.

Dunes at Heacham South Beach, which form a vital sea defence (Image: Chris Bishop)

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The EA said it is updating its shoreline management plan for the area because a so-called trigger point has now been reached.

It will continue to move existing material around the beaches to any low spots in a process known as beach recycling.

Sadia Moeed, area director of the Environment Agency, on Heacham Beach (Image: Chris Bishop)

Sadia Moeed, area director for the EA, said: “Following this report, it is more important than ever that residents help to protect the ridge to ensure it lasts as long as possible.

“Property owners should refrain from digging into the ridge at all and approach the Environment Agency if they wish to undertake works within 50ft of it. This will help preserve the integrity of the ridge and its ability to perform as a natural flood defence.

“In the meantime, the Environment Agency will be looking at future options it can take in step with the council and local residents.”

WHAT DOES THE REPORT SAY?

A sign at Heacham Beach warns of the flooding risk (Image: Chris Bishop)

Cross-banks - new defences stretching from the shingle ridge to a secondary flood bank further inland - could reduce both the risk of flooding at Heacham and Shepherd's Port, where most properties are located and the need for beach recycling.

 At Heacham South Beach, it says:  "The recommended approach to dune management here would be to help re-establish vegetation and improve the dunes by fencing them off restricting public access to just a few selected locations, facilitated by raised boardwalks at those points."

"It is important that these dunes are able to reprofile naturally of their own accord if they are to provide a healthy natural flood defence to Heacham."

It adds if the dunes migrate further inland, the amount of sand entering properties may in future become "unmanageable".

The defences protect thousands of caravans and holiday homes (Image: Chris Bishop)

WHAT DOESN'T IT SAY?

Experts were called in after it emerged that the shingle bank was moving inland.

Their report does not touch on the longer-term future in terms of whether the current policy of "holding the line" should be replaced by either no active intervention or managed realignment - meaning thousands of caravans and chalets would have to be relocated away from the flood risk zone.

Instead, it recommends authorities should "consider and develop the recommendations for changes to flood risk management, including updated economic costs and benefits assessments" adding: "This may form part of a wider strategic assessment."

HOW CAN I FIND OUT MORE?

Part of the shingle ridge between Heacham and Snettisham (Image: Chris Bishop)

Following the report, the EA and West Norfolk council will be hosting two drop-in sessions to allow those living in the area to find out more about the report and next steps.

Sandra Squire, the council's cabinet member for the environment and coast, said: "It’s vital that residents and tourists understand that they play a part in ensuring this natural defence is protected.

"I urge residents who live on or near this coastline to attend one of the drop-in sessions to be held in August to find out how they can play their part and have a say in the future of the shingle ridge.”

The first session will be at Snettisham Sailing Club on Thursday, August 8 from 4 - 6.30pm. The second will be at Heacham Methodist Church Hall on 9 Friday, August 9 from 4 - 6.30pm.