Environment Agency Hears Concerns on Hurst Spit to Lymington Plan

The Environment Agency will listen to feedback. It concerns coastline plans from Hurst Spit to Lymington. Several groups are creating a strategy to manage flood and erosion risks. This covers the next century in the area. These groups include the EA and the local council.

A plan exists to move back the sea wall. It affects some coastal sections locally. Local sailing clubs strongly criticized it, believing it could harm Lymington River. Local marine businesses could suffer a lot. The EA says current area management will continue.

Another plan aspect faces strong criticism. Campaign group Slak objects to it, wanting Hurst Spit maintained soon. Then, they would leave it to nature after some time. Slak includes many groups in the area, formed by sailing clubs, yacht clubs, and others. They recently met with the Environment Agency.

Claire Francis, who works for the EA, spoke about the plan and feedback. She said they will keep listening and want to hear from residents and groups. The strategy covers 15km of coastline, spanning from Hurst Spit to Lymington. It considers the next 100 years, helping manage climate change effectively.

Sea levels will rise because of climate change. This will impact the coastline. The current phase focuses on impacts and ideas. Immediate changes are not happening now, and the EA is not suggesting immediate change. Current management of Hurst Spit will continue.

Local groups worry about a lack of short-term action. They fear funding for defenses might dry up while creating the long-term plan. Francis stated the plan won’t affect current work and maintenance. This approach will continue given budgets.

The EA monitors the existing defenses’ condition. They will adapt their approach if needed. This flexible approach uses all information. Francis said the EA knows of strong local interest. They welcome public input on the strategy.

Understanding everyone’s knowledge is important. Hearing their experience also matters. The conversation helps shape the strategy. Slak worried about Lymington River. The EA focuses on protecting people from flood risk and understands community users exist there.

The strategy has long-term implications. The EA is reducing Hurst Spit management which could change wave energy. Coastal dynamics and the river could also change. Francis said they work with harbor staff. The goal is to understand their dredging work and consider salt marsh recharge activities.

The related work is not complete yet. They are not at that strategy stage but are heading into it now. The EA plans to keep engaging with Slak, and other groups will also remain involved. People can join the Stakeholder Advisory Group. It is a venue for gathering feedback which will help to shape this strategy.

The formal consultation starts in summer 2026. The EA welcomes ongoing chats before then.