Environment Agency releases Norfolk shingle ridge report

The stretch of Norfolk coast provides flood protection to the local community.

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Environment Agency releases Norfolk shingle ridge report

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The Environment Agency has concluded their initial assessment into the shingle ridge running between Snettisham and Heacham in West Norfolk.

The ridge, which offers natural protection from tidal flooding to the area, will need a recharge in coming years, requiring the Environment Agency to bring in material to replace that which has been taken out to sea by wave action.

Currently, the EA annually moves existing material around the beaches to any low spots - a process known as recycling. The assessment indicated that this is adequate at the moment, but that the funding will fall short of a recharge when needed in the coming years.

The EA will now update the 2015 Wash East Coast Management Strategy (WCEMS) for Hunstanton to Wolferton Creek. The report will further assess the latest monitoring data and determine the future flood risk management approach for this stretch of coast.

Sadia Moeed, Area Director for the Environment Agency, 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 16m 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.”

Cllr Sandra Squire, Cabinet member for Environment and Coastal at the Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk, said: “The approach taken by the Environment Agency to engage with residents and visitors, alongside organisations including the borough council, is very much welcomed. The report will be scrutinised by our E&C Panel as well as representatives of the local community. 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.”

[Image source: Environment Agency]


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