In a proactive move to combat the looming threat of climate change, the Environment Agency has announced a comprehensive coastal management scheme set to benefit thousands of properties in East Sussex.
The Pevensey Bay to Eastbourne Coastal Management Scheme aims to protect homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure from flooding and coastal erosion over the next century.
Adapting to Rising Seas
By 2100, sea levels are predicted to rise by a staggering 1.15 metres, with storms becoming increasingly intense and frequent. Nick Gray, the Environment Agency’s flood-risk manager for Sussex, emphasised the urgency of the situation:
“These beach improvement works mark the start of the long-term plan to manage this increasing flood-risk for the coastline between Holywell in Eastbourne to Cooden Beach, east of Pevensey Bay.”
The scheme adopts an “adaptation pathway” approach, allowing for flexibility in response to observed and predicted changes in sea levels over time. This strategy enables timely implementation of new or adapted flood-risk management approaches, avoiding the pitfalls of acting too early or too late.
Shingle and Groynes
The medium-term phase of the project, set to commence in 2025, will focus on subtle interventions and enhancements to the shingle beaches in Pevensey Bay, Sovereign Harbour, and Eastbourne. Key elements of the plan include:
- Improvements to beach design
- Repairs to wooden groynes
- Enhanced surveying and monitoring techniques
These measures, carefully chosen to optimize benefits for both the local community and the environment, may not seem drastically different from current beach management practices.
Environmental Considerations and Carbon Footprint
In a nod to broader environmental concerns, the Environment Agency has pledged to explore alternative fuel options for the heavy machinery used in shingle maintenance.
This commitment demonstrates a holistic approach to coastal management, balancing immediate flood protection needs with long-term sustainability goals.
The scheme also presents opportunities for landscape and ecological improvements along the coast, potentially enhancing the area’s natural beauty and biodiversity.
Community Engagement and Next Steps
The Environment Agency is keen to involve local residents in the planning process. Interested parties can meet the project team at the upcoming Eastbourne Beach Life music festival on July 13th and 14th, from 11am to 5pm.
More detailed information about the beach improvements will be shared in autumn 2024, following the completion of further design work.
While the scheme promises increased protection for coastal communities, it’s important to note that this is just the beginning of a long-term strategy.
As climate change continues to pose challenges, ongoing adaptation and management will be crucial to safeguarding East Sussex’s coastline for generations to come.
For the latest updates and information on the Pevensey Bay to Eastbourne Coastal Management Scheme, visit the official project website.
Sources: THX News & Environment Agency.
