Strategy launched to protect Dorset and New Forest coastline

That is the message from BCP Council and New Forest District Council (NFDC) whose calculations reveal a catastrophic impact from climate change affecting the shared coastline.

The authorities are encouraging people to have their say on the proposed leading options to manage coastal flood and erosion risk from Hengistbury Head Long Groyne to Hurst Spit – encompassing Christchurch Harbour.

Baseline assessment calculations reveal that to ‘do nothing’ over the next 100 years will result in coastal frontage suffering around £1 billion in damages, which includes erosion risk to approximately 1,600 properties and coastal flood risk to more than 2,200 properties, including homes and non-residential buildings.

Land slip at Hengistbury Head

The Christchurch Bay and Harbour flood and coastal erosion risk management strategy is being produced jointly by both councils, in partnership with the Environment Agency and AECOM.

Following feedback from the fourth phase of engagement in December last year, each of the short-listed options were assessed.

Leading options were then identified for each of the 18 option development units and these proposals are the focus of the consultation.

Councillor Andy Hadley, BCP’s member for climate response, environment and energy, said: “The draft strategy identifies when, where and how much these coastal protection options would cost to deliver.

“The value of damages is not designed to alarm people but is part of the process which enables us to evidence and justify what measures we should consider amongst the options to minimise the risks.

“By planning ahead and working together, we can sustainably manage our coastline for future generations to enjoy.”

Cllr Geoffrey Blunden, member environment and sustainability at NFDC, added: “Importantly, the strategy has also considered the effects of predicted climate change including sea level rise and opportunities to enhance the environment, while ensuring the options proposed for one area would have no detriment to another.

“This is vital as we need to manage the entire coastal frontage as one cohesive strategy.”

It is anticipated the final strategy will be adopted in spring 2024. It will enable BCP Council and NFDC to bid for government funding.

The consultation started on June 5 and will be open for 12 weeks.

Visit haveyoursay.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/christchurchstrategyphase5 for more information.