New Builds For 'Risky' Coast
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
The Government plans to lift a ban on developing areas at risk of coast erosion.
Development could be considered in eroding areas. Photo: Roz Tappenden
A consultation paper by the Environment Agency encourages councils to consider temporary developments that could help local economies.
Liberal Democrat councillor for Wareham David Budd, who sits on Purbeck Council’s planning committee, said: "Anybody who proceeds needs to be quite clear that they do so at their own risk."
Under the guidance, planners could consider applications for beach huts, cafés and car parks.
Cllr Budd added: "I, personally, would not want to invest in a café and find after a particularly bad storm it had been washed out to sea.
"Clearly there's a balance – if there's no problem then clearly they will make money but if they suddenly found that structure was washed away then it defeats the purpose."
Housing and planning minister John Healey said: "What we're hearing from coastal communities is temporary development that would be beneficial to the area’s economy is unable to go ahead."
The document, released yesterday, also outlines how medium to long-term risk areas could be developed.
Businesses needing a coastal location could also be approved if they have social and economic benefits.
Residential property will still be banned in at-risk areas.
