TWO authorities across Dorset and Hampshire are asking residents for their views on a proposed short list of coastline erosion management measures. 

BCP Council and New Forest District Council are asking its residents for their views on a proposed list of flood and erosion risk management measures for the coastal frontage from Hengistbury Head Long Groyne to Hurst Spit, encompassing Christchurch Harbour. 

This flood and coastal erosion risk management strategy for Christchurch Bay and Harbour is being produced jointly by both councils, working together with the Environment Agency.  

As well as informing how coastal communities may be protected, it will also consider the effects of predicted climate change, including sea level rise and the increasing frequency of storms. 

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Two face-to-face drop in sessions have been arranged, including one on Monday, December 5 at Milford-on-Sea Village Community Centre from 10am and another on Monday, December 12 at Christchurch Library Octagon Space from 10a. 

An online event hosted by Dorset Coast Forum is to be held on Tuesday, December 13 from 7pm. 

Councillor Mark Anderson, portfolio holder for the environment at BCP Council, said: “Climate change is putting significantly more properties at risk of coastal flooding and erosion.  

Bournemouth Echo:

“To date we have gathered information, research and technical data to understand what would happen if we do nothing to defend our coast.  

“Along with public and stakeholder views, we produced a longlist of potential measures to do something to ensure our coastal communities are more resilient to flooding and erosion over the next 100 years.  

Councillor Steve Davies, portfolio holder for environment and coastal services at New Forest District Council, added: “Once we have listened to feedback on the proposed short list of measures for each area of the coast, they will be further appraised to understand if the options are economically, socially, technically and environmentally viable.  

“A key aspect will be to consider how all the measures link together across the entire coastal frontage to form one cohesive strategy for Christchurch Bay and Harbour.  

“In New Forest we must ensure links with the developing strategy for Hurst Spit to Lymington are also considered.”