Public consultation launched into future of coastal defences on the Isle of Wight
The proposed sea defences are designed to safeguard over 500 properties in Yaverland and Sandown
An online consultation, aimed at enhancing the resilience of coastal communities in Yaverland, Sandown, and Shanklin, is being launched by The Environment Agency and The Isle of Wight Council
The initiative, starting on Monday, October 23, offers residents an opportunity to provide crucial feedback on proposed options for restoring coastal defences. The consultation will run until Friday, December 1.
Additionally, for those who prefer to give feedback face-too-face, six public exhibitions will be held throughout October and November in Sandown and Shanklin. The events aim to facilitate discussions, ensuring every voice is heard.
The events are being held as follows:
The proposed sea defences, a pivotal part of this initiative, are designed to safeguard over 500 properties in Yaverland and Sandown, including key infrastructure, local businesses, heritage assets, and designated sites, mitigating the risks associated with flooding and coastal erosion.
In Shanklin, approximately 84 properties and 37 businesses will benefit from enhanced protection, fostering a more secure environment against the threats of flooding and coastal erosion.
These comprehensive measures not only protect the present but are also integral to building resilience against the challenges of climate change in the years to come.
The consultation is said to mark a significant step toward creating a more secure and sustainable future for these coastal communities.
Residents are encouraged to participate actively, ensuring their perspectives shape the development of these essential defence strategies.
Emily Webster, Project Lead for Shanklin and Yaverland Coastal Defence Schemes, Environment Agency, said:
“There is an increasing risk of flooding and coastal erosion for the communities in Yaverland, Sandown and Shanklin. The sea wall and groynes are deteriorating, sea level is predicted to rise and storm events will become more extreme, due to climate change.
“We want to encourage as many people as possible to give their feedback on our proposed options to restore the coastline. This can either be done via the online consultation or at one of our public exhibitions. The responses we get will be very important because they will help us choose the best design for restoring the current flood defences”.
Councillor Fuller from Isle of Wight Council said:
“The exhibitions offer an excellent opportunity for residents to engage with experts to ask questions and find out more about sea defences”.
Everyone is welcome to pop into the upcoming public exhibitions. There will be a free cup of tea or coffee, and light snacks. Children can also take part in a free LEGO® building competition with fantastic prizes up for grabs.
The online consultation is very easy to do and only takes five minutes to complete. There will be hard copies of the consultation available in local libraries and at the Isle of Wight Council office reception.