EFRA to explore plight of coastal communities facing the risk of collapse
Coastal erosion is a natural process of loss of land on the coast by removal of sediment on the coastline. Rates of coastal erosion vary but areas with softer, sedimentary rocks are the most vulnerable.
This includes Norfolk, Suffolk and Yorkshire, where the coastline is creeping inland, causing distress and anxiety to residents. Written evidence to the inquiry has revealed the depth of despair felt by communities and individuals. Recent news coverage has followed developments in the coastal villages of Happisburgh, Thorpeness and Cowbar.
Landslides also represent a considerable challenge for communities in hilly or mountainous areas as well as on the coast. Heavy rainfall, associated groundwater changes, geology and human land use are often the cause, with similarly devastating results. For example, insurance is proving expensive and difficult to secure, with incidents prompting blanket increases for communities on the Isle of Wight.
Meeting details
The Committee will hear from a range of councils facing different challenges related to coastal erosion and landslides and seek to understand the remit and range of their work.
On the second panel, MPs will question those with direct responsibility for planning and implementing government policy. Defra has national responsibility for policy on Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management, assisted by responsible bodies such as the Environment Agency.