Help shape the future coastal defences at Yaverland and Shanklin

The Environment Agency, in partnership with the Isle of Wight Council, are working together alongside industry experts to reduce the risk of flooding and coastal erosion to over 600 properties in Shanklin and Yaverland.

Both projects are still in the development stages, so gathering what people value most about these important coastal frontages now is invaluable.

Nick Gray, Environment Agency’s Flood and Coastal Risk Manager for Solent and South Downs Area, said:

This is a critical time for residents and businesses to get involved and have their say on the future of flood protection at Yaverland and the coastal erosion at Shanklin Esplanade.

The project team is seeking people’s thoughts on the potential opportunities to improve the natural and built environments as part of the schemes.  Feedback will help to develop the plans before further public consultation takes place in Spring 2023.

The questionnaires can be found on Environment Agency Citizen Space here: Isle of Wight Coastal Defence Schemes Information Page

Cllr Jonathan Bacon, cabinet member responsible for the environment, said:

These projects are the first of several schemes we will be developing to help communities become more resilient to climate change and the risks of flooding. They aim to ensure a sustainable future for the coastal frontages at Shanklin and Yaverland that current and future generations can enjoy.

We would encourage anyone who uses or has an interest in these areas to have their say so that we can capture the public’s early ideas, concerns, and recommendations.

The closing date for responses is Sunday 31 July 2022 for Shanklin and Wednesday 31 August 2022 for Yaverland. Paper copies can also be found within Shanklin and Sandown libraries.