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Coastal erosion

Coastal erosion should be viewed as part of a long-term dynamic process with the coastline receding or advancing at the boundary between the land and the sea. History shows us that the coastline of the UK has been changing for centuries and this will continue into the future.

Material that is transported from one section of the coast can be transported to form part of a beach, saltmarsh or mudflat somewhere else in a continuous process of erosion and build-up. It is important that those responsible for managing coastal erosion risk recognise these underlying natural processes and work with them as much as possible

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Who is responsible for managing coastal flood and erosion risk?

Flood and coastal erosion risk management is a devolved responsibility. In England, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has overall policy responsibility. Defra funds most of the Environment Agency's flood related work and grant aids individual projects carried out by local authorities. However Defra does not build or maintain defences.

Maritime local authorities are empowered to carry out works in their area to protect the coast from erosion; they may also undertake works to protect against sea flooding.

The Environment Agency is the principal flood defence operating authority with responsibility for managing flood risk from designated main rivers and the sea. The Environment Agency is also responsible for public awareness campaigns, flood forecasting and warning.

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The risk of flooding

The Environment Agency monitors sea conditions over a 24 hour period, 365 days a year. The Storm Tide Forecasting Service provides the Environment Agency with forecasts of coastal flooding, surge and wave activity, together with warnings when hazardous situations are seen to be developing.

If you are concerned about flooding from the sea, you should contact the Environment Agency's 24 hour Flood Line on 0845 988 1188, or seek advice via their website in the first instance. They will advise you of what precautions you should take and what action is needed in the event of a flood emergency.

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