The Defend Our Coast Association (DOC)  held a very successful meeting on Friday, 26 September 2008 at the Guild Hall in Lydd. The meeting for all members and invited guests had been called in order to receive an update summary on the recent draft consultation for  the proposed sea defence schemes  on the Marsh recently put forward  by the Environment Agency.

DOC Meeting at the Guild Hall in Lydd

DOC’s Chairman,  Terry Preston, opened the meeting  followed by  Andrew Pearce and David Crowther from the  EA  who gave a very informative PowerPoint presentation to a packed hall. DOC Members , various District, Town and Parish  Councillors around the Marsh, together with representatives from various organisations such as CPRE, NFU, Internal Drainage Board  amongst others , were able to listen to  a brief summary outlining the results and  responses  from  the recent consultation . This was followed by a  brief outline regarding anticipated  future steps in the  scheme preparation of the strategy.

After a break for refreshments a very productive Q & A session followed during which many specific local concerns were raised and discussed . It was agreed that continued involvement by DOC and  local communities was necessary in order to ensure a successful outcome of the scheme which would lead to the  much needed improved sea defences on the Marsh to safeguard against flooding .

Although both MP’s from Kent and East Sussex ( Michael Howard MP & Michael Foster MP)  were unable to attend, they continued their support for DOC and  their constituencies by sending a representative and by offering to take up any matters which their constituents wish to raise regarding this strategy. DOC will also continue to keep its members informed on any progress made on their behalf.

For a full report on the meeting visit our Flood Defence News/Update page and click on appropriate link.