Call for clarity over Barton cliffs erosion policy (From Thisisdorset)

Call for clarity over Barton cliffs erosion policy

7:00pm Monday 8th February 2010

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CONCERNS about the eroding cliff tops at Barton-on-Sea has prompted New Forest MP Desmond Swayne to call for a meeting with the environment secretary.

During question time of the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs last week, Mr Swayne asked Secretary of State, Hilary Benn for a meeting to discuss the issue brought about by the Shoreline Management Plan, which has raised alarm bells with many local people.

He said: “I have spoken to local councillors and residents who are very concerned about what this Shoreline Management Plan means.”

For the first 20 years, the draft plan recommends that areas from Hurst Spit to Rook Cliff “hold the line”.

Cliff Road has been classified an area of managed realignment, which is also the recommendation for the next 100 years for Cliff Road, Barton-on-Sea to Marine Drive East, Barton-on-Sea to Marine Drive and Marine Drive West and Naish Cliff.

Mr Swayne added: “The term managed realignment is very sinister. I don’t think it’s clear. I think what’s absolutely clear is that whatever needs to be done has not been budgeted for.”

A spokesman for New Forest District Council said: “It won’t always be possible or appropriate to defend against erosion in the way that we have in the past.

“Where this is the case, together with local authorities, we will work closely with communities to help them adapt to the changes.”

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