EA Comments on Strategy

In May the Environment Agency announced recommendations for managing flood risk along the Kent coast from Folkestone to Cliff End at Rye over the next 100 years. As the public consultation continues, next week sees the final two drop-in sessions for local residents.

On Monday 7 July at Rye Community Learning Centre, Lion Street, Rye, and on Friday 11 July at St Mary’s Bay Village Hall, St Mary’s Bay you can drop-in between 2pm and 8pm. This is an opportunity to pick up a guide to the draft options, view the exhibition panels and speak to Environment Agency staff about the strategy.

This coastline and low lying land is one of the largest areas at risk from flooding in Southern England. As our climate changes and sea levels rise, the risks of flooding and coastal erosion will increase here over time.

The Environment Agency wants to know what you think about the draft options developed for managing flood and erosion risk. A guide for local communities details the recommendations for each section of the coastline. Copies of the guide are available at local libraries in Rye, Lydd, New Romney, Hythe, Sandgate and Folkestone; they are also be available from the Environment Agency website at: www.environment-agency.gov.uk/yourenv/consultations or you can call 08708 506 506 for copies. Any feedback on the strategy should be returned before Friday 15 August 2008.

The Environment Agency’s draft strategy for managing flood risk from Folkestone to Cliff End presents the assessment of flood risk here and the most appropriate way of managing this in the future. Some areas, such as Broomhill Sands and Lydd Ranges which are well below high spring tide levels, have been highlighted as priority areas to build or improve defences to reduce flood risk.

Peter Midgley, Kent & East Sussex Area Manager, said: “This is a vulnerable and changing coastline that has over 13,500 homes, two nuclear power stations, an airport, two military training ranges and the harbour at Rye, all at risk from flooding. “

“With our climate changing and sea levels rising, we must look at how we will manage the risks here well in to the future. If we don’t, we could see many houses permanently flooded, impossible to access or even lost for good.”

“We can’t prevent all flooding, but the proposals and ideas we are sharing with you now will help ensure the wellbeing of the area as a place to live, work and visit for the next century. We urge anyone who lives, works or enjoys visiting these areas to find out more about our proposals and have their say before the consultation closes.”