A new Environment Agency report says that 7 ,000 UK houses worth more than £1bn, will be demolished by rising sea levels in the coming 100 year. Although the Environment Agency (Agency) has yet to publish its report, it was seen by Guardian newspapers. The Agency projects that over 800 houses will disappear as the coastlines recede in the coming 20 years based on the current funding level. Waves are steadily destroying the British coastline. Climate change is a major factor in increasing the frequency and intensity of storms, as well as the rise in sea levels. Most scientists agree. The Agency states that no preventive measures will be implemented to stop these properties sliding into the ocean. This is because they believe it is too costly. Stopping the destruction of these properties would be more expensive than their PS1bn value. Over the next 20 years, more than properties will suffer the same fate in Norfolk as the one above. Photo by Pat Gowen. There are currently no compensation programs for homeowners whose property is damaged due to erosion. It is very difficult to get insurance in highly exposed homes. According to the National Trust, erosion of UK coasts can occur in just a few hours after severe winter storms. According to the Trust, if severe weather events are more frequent, erosion rates at many sites could become “worst”. Forecasts predict that storms will become more frequent and stronger on the British coast. One ,400 home was flooded by a tidal wave in Lowestoft, East Anglia. Other properties were also swept into the ocean. Six localities – Scarborough East Riding North Norfolk Cornwall Southampton, Southampton, Southampton, and Great Yarmouth- will lose 200 property each to the ocean over the next century. People living in vulnerable areas have formed groups to seek compensation for being forced from their homes. The government has not yet responded to this request, which would set an example for coastal erosion victims by establishing a precedent in damages claims. The National Trust’s Birling Gap information and cafe at East Sussex receives 350,000 visits each year. At 0.7m per year, the cliffs are being reduced. Within 12 year, the sun lounge will be swept into the ocean. (Photo by National Trust) A spokesperson for Environment Agency stated that the agency uses advanced methods to assess and monitor the effects of coastal erosion. Our team works with the local authorities to develop shoreline management plans. We also monitor coastal erosion and conduct research to determine how to adapt.
