Local council takes bold step to fund demolition as coastal erosion threatens homes

DCM Editorial Summary: This story has been independently rewritten and summarised for DCM readers to highlight key developments relevant to the region. Original reporting by BBC, click this post to read the original article.

Richard Daniel/BBC

East Suffolk Council has confirmed it will continue to help cover demolition costs for homeowners whose properties are affected by severe coastal erosion in Thorpeness. If you live in this coastal village, you may have seen how erosion has already forced the demolition of several homes, and more are currently at risk. The council estimates these demolition efforts could total around £330,000.

Planning and coastal management official Mark Packard explained that the damage has been deeply distressing for affected property owners. According to him, the erosion has been happening at an unprecedented rate, especially following extreme weather earlier this year. To ease resident concerns, the council is stepping in to cover immediate demolition costs through its financial reserves, even though it isn’t legally required to do so.

You may be aware that over the past year, the council has already spent £750,000 on coastal defenses along the affected shoreline. Despite these efforts, officials now say there’s little that can be done in the short term to prevent further erosion. So far, four homes have been pulled down this winter, adding to another that was demolished back in 2022, with nine more currently at serious risk.

Originally built as a luxury holiday destination in the 19th century, Thorpeness holds historical value, which makes the current situation even more tragic. For those of you living in the area or owning property along the coast, the continued financial support from the council might offer some relief amid a very difficult time.