Written question asked by Brandon Lewis (Conservative) on Wednesday, 15 March 2023, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 17 March 2023. It was answered by Rebecca Pow (Conservative) on Tuesday, 21 March 2023 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Coastal Areas: Environment Protection

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if her Department will grant local authorities additional powers to compel landowners to contribute to coastal protection schemes.

Answer: Local authorities have a wide range of powers under the Coastal Protection Act (1949) to carry out their role as coastal protection authorities and as coastal erosion risk management authorities, including powers to raise levies on those with an interest in land that will benefit from any coastal protection works. The Act also makes the Environment Agency a relevant authority for the coast protection along with coastal protection authorities. This means the Environment Agency has discretionary powers to direct an owner or occupier of land to undertake coast protection works where they have a historical obligation to maintain defences.

The Rt Hon Member's continued support to the Great Yarmouth Borough Council and Coast Parentship East helps to fully engage the local community and relevant landowners, as they take decisions and actions along this part of our coast.

Secondary information