Coastal Village Battles Rising Seas: Defenses May Move

Coastal defenses in Happisburgh, a village severely impacted by coastal erosion in recent years, may be relocated. North Norfolk District Council is actively exploring options to alter the existing rock armour system. This initiative is crucial as the village has witnessed 34 homes lost to the sea over the last two decades, with its medieval church now standing perilously close to the cliff edge.

The council has secured continued access to a stretch of foreshore by renewing a lease with a private landowner. This step is vital for implementing any potential changes to the coastal protection measures. The Coastwise project is currently evaluating the effectiveness of the current rock armour and assessing alternative strategies for Happisburgh.

This move comes as the government recently allocated £18 million towards the most at-risk coastal areas, including funding for Norfolk. Council cabinet member Harry Blathwayt emphasized the importance of settling the foreshore lease to continue supporting Happisburgh, noting the area's well-known difficulties. Nearby, Hemsby has also faced significant property loss due to coastal erosion, with 14 homes recently at risk and 36 properties lost since 2013.