The statutory approach to coastal defence in England and Wales

This paper examines the statutory measures developed to deal with coastal erosion and flooding in England and Wales. It considers coastal defence as a broad approach to the mechanisms of protection including both structural and planned responses. The roles of operating authorities with statutory authority to undertake coastal defence works are examined and the link between planning and management issues addressed. Spatial aspects of coastal defence responses are also considered. The paper concludes that while statutory approaches will continue to be important in coastal defence issues non-statutory approaches, underpinned by the statutory system, will develop in importance and predominate as the preferred methods of response.