Broads Forum welcomes commitment to protect the coast
The Broads Forum welcomed, at its meeting on Thursday 10 April, the present commitment by the Environment Agency to continue to maintain the defences of The Broads for at least the next 50 years.
In his presentation to the meeting Steve Hayman from the Environment Agency indicated that a further £7 million of work is scheduled to take place over the next two years to continue the protection of the coast. The Broads Authority had successfully supported the Agency's bid for these resources.
The agreed policy in the Shoreline Management Plan supported by all the key agencies including the Environment Agency, the Broads Authority and Natural England, is that the coast should be protected for the next 50 years.
Members of the forum, which meets in public and represents many different interests from across The Broads, stressed the unique value of The Broads, recognised in its status equivalent to that of national park. It was important that this was also acknowledged at the highest level and there was a need to press Government to ensure appropriate resources continue to be available to maintain the coastal defences.
The forum's members highlighted the importance and value of keeping the public informed and involved in discussions on the potential impact of sea level rise and the policies on coastal defence. The forum supported the suggestion that it should receive regular reports on the issue, particularly on research findings and the development of policy.
Jonathan Bowman, Chairman of the Broads Forum said: "the recent coverage in the press demonstrates the importance of debating these issues in public so that those with the greatest interest in such matters, those with houses and businesses in the area, are properly involved".
Kerry Turner, Chairman of the Broads Authority said: "The Broads Forum is exactly the type of arrangement that can help in furthering this vital dialogue amongst all interested groups and individuals. Climate change poses all of us significant challenges which we owe to ourselves and the future to meet as best we can."
15/04/2008
