Source · Select Committees · Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee
6th Report - Erosion of trust: the impact of coastal erosion on communities
Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee
HC 1317
Published 20 March 2026
Conclusions (2)
9
Conclusion
Deferred
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 …
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.
11
Conclusion
Deferred
Shoreline Management Plans (SMPs) are not consistently integrated into Local Plans, resulting in planning decisions that do not account for future coastalchange risks. The mismatch between Local Plan timescales and the longerterm horizons of SMPs could lead to developments being approved in areas that are not expected to remain protected, …
Government Response Summary
The government highlighted existing policies requiring local plans to consider coastal change and integrate Shoreline Management Plans. It is currently analysing feedback from a consultation on National Planning Policy Framework changes and will publish its response in due course.