The non-statutory approach to coastal defence in England and Wales: Coastal Defence Groups and Shoreline Management Plans

The paper examines the aims and objectives behind the development of the non-statutory shoreline management process in England and Wales. The roles played by Coastal Defence Groups and associated Shoreline Management Plans will be examined as well as their perceived benefits and shortcomings encountered by those in both policy and practice. The paper concludes that, although not panacea, there have and will continue to be significant improvements in the planning and management of coastal defence since the emergence of these groups and plans in England and Wales.