Protecting Our Investments: Coastal Erosion's Impact

Coastal erosion is a natural process driven by the action of the sea, which poses a threat to properties, historic sites, and infrastructure. The impact of coastal erosion is severe, with an estimated 21 villages and hamlets experiencing property losses valued at over half a billion pounds. In addition to the direct loss of property, coastal erosion also damages infrastructure, including roads and railways, and can make land inaccessible. By 2050, it is predicted that one million properties could be at risk of flooding due to coastal erosion, and by 2100, significant infrastructure could be vulnerable.

Roads and railways

The impact of coastal erosion on roads and railways can be severe. It can cause direct loss of or damage to property, such as buildings and infrastructure. Beachfront properties, such as homes or businesses, are immediately threatened by this process. The impact of coastal erosion extends beyond property located on the coast, however. It can also affect roads and railways that are not located directly on the coast.

Erosion statistics from the Committee on Climate Change predict that by 2050, one million properties could be at risk of flooding, and by 2100, significant infrastructure including roads and railways could be vulnerable. To manage these risks effectively, England has developed coastal erosion risk management policies, aligned with the national flood and coastal erosion risk management strategy. It is advisable to check the coastal erosion risk map, which provides a visual representation of areas potentially at risk over short-term (20 years), medium (50 years), and long-term (100+ years) periods.

In addition to the physical damage caused by coastal erosion, there can also be economic impacts. As land is lost or otherwise made inaccessible due to the risk of further erosion, the economic impact can be severe. This includes the cost of repairing or replacing damaged roads and railways, as well as the loss of revenue from reduced tourism or business activity in the area.

Residential property

Coastal erosion is a natural process driven by the constant action of the sea. It poses a significant threat to residential properties, with an estimated 21 villages and hamlets in England suffering property losses valued at over half a billion pounds due to erosion. By 2050, it is predicted that one million properties could be at risk of flooding, and by 2100, significant infrastructure, including roads and railways, could be vulnerable.

Beachfront properties are immediately threatened by coastal erosion, and the impact extends beyond properties located directly on the coast. In Scotland, for example, it is estimated that £1.2 billion of assets, including residential property, lie within 50 metres of the coast and are at risk of coastal erosion.

The economic impact of coastal erosion can be severe, as land is lost or made inaccessible due to the risk of further erosion. Along with the direct loss of or damage to property, coastal erosion also impacts infrastructure, such as roads and railways, and even agriculture.

To manage these risks, England has developed coastal erosion risk management policies, aligned with the national flood and coastal erosion risk management strategy. It is advisable to check the coastal erosion risk map, which provides a visual representation of areas potentially at risk over short-term (20 years), medium (50 years), and long-term (100+ years) periods.

Historic sites

Coastal erosion is a natural process driven by the action of the surrounding seas. It poses a threat to properties, roads, railways, and historic sites.

The impact of coastal erosion on historic sites can be devastating, resulting in the loss of important cultural and architectural heritage. For example, in England, there are some of Europe's fastest-eroding coastlines, with the eastern regions facing the greatest risk due to their composition of softer sediments. This has already led to significant property losses in 21 villages and hamlets, valued at over half a billion pounds.

To manage these risks, England has developed coastal erosion risk management policies, aligned with the national flood and coastal erosion risk management strategy. It is advisable for those living near the coast to check the coastal erosion risk map, which provides a visual representation of areas potentially at risk over short-term (20 years), medium (50 years), and long-term (100+ years) periods.

The economic impact of coastal erosion on historic sites can also be significant, as the loss of these sites can affect tourism and local economies. Therefore, it is crucial to take proactive measures to protect and preserve historic sites located in areas vulnerable to coastal erosion.

Agriculture

Coastal erosion is a natural process driven by the action of the sea, which poses a threat to coastal properties. Over the past 50 years, there have been dramatic changes as cliffs and beaches have been gradually worn away. This erosion not only washes away land but also ruins homes, infrastructure and even agriculture.

In addition, the threat of erosion prevents developers from creating new buildings or infrastructure in some coastal areas. This could include agricultural buildings such as barns, greenhouses, or other structures used for farming or storage.

To protect against the negative economic impacts of coastal erosion, risk reduction measures can be implemented. Beach nourishment, the addition of sand to act as a buffer against erosion, and shoreline "hardening" with seawalls, levees, and similar structures can help to reduce the effects of erosion. Building sustainably and thoughtfully in coastal areas can also reduce the likelihood of erosion.

Beachfront businesses

In the UK, at least £20bn of assets, roads, rail and residential property lie within 50 metres of the coast. Coastal erosion could put £1.2bn of Scotland's buildings and infrastructure at risk.

The impact of coastal erosion extends beyond property located on the coast. It is difficult to measure the exact amount of land lost, as coastal erosion rates vary dramatically depending on location and other factors. However, as land is lost or otherwise made inaccessible due to the risk of further erosion, the economic impact can be severe.

To manage these risks effectively, England has developed coastal erosion risk management policies, aligned with the national flood and coastal erosion risk management strategy. It is advisable to check the coastal erosion risk map, which provides a visual representation of areas potentially at risk over short-term (20 years), medium (50 years), and long-term (100+ years) periods.

Frequently asked questions