Source · Select Committees · Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee
Recommendation 9
9
Deferred
Innovative adaptation measures, including property purchase and relocation schemes, have been successfully piloted through the...
Conclusion
Innovative adaptation measures, including property purchase and relocation schemes, have been successfully piloted through the Coastal Change Pathfinder and the ongoing Coastal Transition Accelerator Programme (CTAP). However, these benefits remain confined to selected pilot areas for a limited period, and longterm support for communities affected by coastal erosion is not assured. (Conclusion, Paragraph 31) 21
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledged the need for long-term support for communities affected by coastal erosion and stated that ongoing pilot programmes (CAP and CTAP) will be evaluated to inform future policy. The refreshed National FCERM Strategy, expected in 2027, will incorporate lessons learned to establish a sustainable long-term model of support.
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
Supporting vulnerable coastal communities is a priority for the Government, and both the CAP and CTAP will be evaluated to inform future policy making. The CAP is managed by the EA and has been directly shaped by emerging findings from the CTAP and the evidence presented to the committee in December. The CAP will run between 2026/27 and 2028/29. A key objective of the CAP is to provide the evidence for a long-term model of support for homeowners at risk of coastal erosion. This includes developing and testing approaches to transition and relocation, with the aim of creating solutions that are practical, scalable, and applicable across different coastal settings. The CAP is also tasked with developing and testing a proof of concept for long-term coastal adaptation. This includes addressing complex legal issues, financial mechanisms, and the acceptability of proposed measures within affected communities. The pilot’s results – supported by technical guidance and evidence – will help establish a sustainable, long-term model of support. These outputs will inform the policy and investment frameworks needed to embed coastal erosion adaptation into national practice. The EA will ensure that the practical lessons and evidence generated from CAP and CTAP are shared directly with coastal practitioners through the Coastal Group Network and RFCCs, facilitating the national rollout of learning. The EA is currently reviewing its national FCERM Strategy and will incorporate the lessons learned from CTAP. The refreshed Strategy is expected to be published in 2027. The updated national FCERM Strategy will embed coastal change, transition and adaptation as key priorities, and will identify measures to support mainstreaming innovative measures to adapt to coastal erosion. We will also continue to develop and oversee implementation of the SMPs to inform investment and decision-making on the coast for the next 100 years and beyond.