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Campaign for Coastal Defence

Selsey Life Dec. 08

 Save Our Selsey

Coast Defence Conundrums

Many of you will have read the Environment Agency’s (EA’s) summary pamphlet, recently delivered to local households, regarding the current situation.  This year’s consultation has finished and, at the time of writing, the Strategy is being reviewed by Chichester District Council (CDC) and Arun, prior to final approval by Government being sought in 2009.

 Happily work has at last started on the permanent repair of the collapsed section of West Beach sea wall;  we are urging CDC to ensure that the whole length of the sea wall is maintained properly during this “limbo” period while we try to get funding for the essential works which the Draft Strategy says are needed.  We are also urging the EA and CDC to embrace the involvement of the local community as plans unfold for the realignment of Medmerry, in order that an acceptable outcome is secured and defences are adequate in the interim.  It is disturbing that there is still no commitment to protect Medmerry Cliffs as this puts the Coastguard Cottages, other properties and the north side of Selsey at risk. 

Bunn Leisure is seeking permission to construct more of its own coast defences at West Sands.  What a sad reflection on current Government policy that a business contributing millions of pounds annually to the local economy and to national taxation should have to resort to building its own protection.

As you know, the good news about the urban frontages – that is the whole length of the sea wall from East Beach, round The Bill to West Beach – is that they have been designated  “hold the line, sustain”.  The not so good news is that there is unlikely to be Government funding and it could be down to local community funding.  SOS considers this to be the next giant challenge and one we plan to tackle whole heartedly with you, the unique and splendid community of Selsey, to ensure a fair, sustainable outcome.   We thank you for the energetic support you have continued to give us during our second year of existence and wish you all a joyful, peaceful Christmas.  During these difficult economic times, the hope of a prosperous New Year seems a little optimistic but, hey, let’s hope for one anyway!