Bid to protect coastline between Lymington and Hurst Spit

The Environment Agency has devised a series of options that aim to ensure sea defences keep pace with climate change over the next 100 years.

The multi-million-pound scheme is designed to safeguard coastal communities between Lymington and the 7,000-year-old Hurst Spit.

Hurst Spit is one of the areas under threat from climate change. (Image: Newsquest)

Several low-lying areas are facing the twin threat of rising sea levels and an increase in the strength and frequency of winter storms.

Areas at extra risk of flooding include Keyhaven Marshes and at least two parts of Lymington, including the town quay.

If no action is taken some of the existing seawalls and embankments could fail by 2028 and inter-tidal wildlife habitats are likely to be lost by 2040. Wave action could damage coastal landfill sites, exposing the sea to pollution.

Lymington Town Quay is one of the sites at extra risk of flooding in the future. Picture: Karen Gregory (Image: Karen Gregory)

The Environment Agency says it is devising tailor-made solutions to the threat faced by individual sections of the coastline.

Options include strengthening existing defences, building new quay walls and embankments and providing flood barriers for individual homes. Bolstering Hurst Spit and raising the height of salt marshes are among other possibilities.

If all goes well the strategy will be approved by the end of 2024, with work likely to be carried out in phases.

Project director Dave Martin said: "Climate change is affecting this stretch of coastline and the impact will become more pronounced. There are a number of factors at play, including the fact that existing defences are nearing the end of their life."

The Environment Agency aims to protect the coastline between Lymington and Hurst Spit from climate change (Image: Newsquest.)

The strategy is being drawn up in partnership with New Forest District Council, Hampshire County Council, Natural England and JBA Consulting.

Several drop-in sessions have already been held for people who want to know more about the threats facing the area and the potential solutions. The final event will be held at Lymington Masonic Hall on October 6 between 10am and 4pm.

Two years ago part of historic Hurst Castle collapsed into the Solent after being battered by a ferocious storm.

A statement on the Environment Agency's website says: "The recent impacts on Hurst Castle are a timely reminder of the challenges facing this coastline."

A message from the Editor

Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.

Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.

You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.

Don't just take my word for it - subscribe today.

Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by searching Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents on Facebook

Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated group by searching Hampshire Court and Crime News on Facebook.