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Campaign for Coastal Defence

Selsey Life November 08

 SOS – New Housing and Coast Defence

Due to the size and nature of the plans submitted by Pye Homes, several people have asked us to comment so here are our thoughts:

General Thoughts

Our terms of reference mean we can only comment on parts of the plans which affect sea defences We would be very concerned if so much additional housing was permitted before funding has been found for the urban sea defences We understand the proposed land raise on the site (billed as a sea defence) will not actually be of benefit for some 50 yrs. Environment Agency data conflicts with that of Pye and suggests that Church Norton/North east beach is not our greatest area for risk at present as Pye have stated We believe that the development is likely to get the green light, even if ultimately through appeal. We therefore wish to ensure sea defences are given due consideration in any planning or unilateral agreements, and that Selsey gets the best deal.

If it goes ahead anyway, how could it be of benefit?

It could provide significant funding towards our sea defence maintenance – welcome, so long as the money is held for that purpose in a locally-controlled fund.

The EA estimates that £41m is needed for Selsey's urban coast defences. 370 homes would be about 7% of Selsey's total, so a proportionate contribution towards coast defence would be £2.9m. Pye are reportedly offering around £3m, as part of the agreement, for use across the community, (but with the majority earmarked for sea defences). 370 houses would increase the towns ‘asset value’ which will give Selsey more priority when the issue of Government funding for our sea defences is discussed. It also makes access (B2145) and services (Sewage/power) more important and likely to mean that the Medmerry realignment is done properly

If Pye did provide £3m for coast defence, how could it be used?

Just the interest earned on £3m (£150,000 pa) could keep 2 drivers and 2 bulldozers re-profiling our beaches, ensuring minimal loss of shingle and maximum protection ahead of storms

Then, some of the capital could  be used to gradually repair/Replace the most damaged groynes and some could be used to purchase rock armour at £35 per tonne to ‘beef up’ vulnerable sea walls when needed. Combined with the re-profiling, we could maintain and sustain the most vulnerable parts of Selsey whilst the best long term solution is sought.