How is the SMP relevant to me or my organisation?
Identifying areas at risk from tidal flooding and/or coastal erosion is key for managing and preventing inappropriate development in these areas, particularly when considering potential impacts of changes in climate. Increasing pressures on the coastal zone for even more housing, marine trade and industry, and the demand for coast-based recreational activities also affects and influences existing and future coastal defence requirements. However, due to the current legislative and funding arrangements, climate change and environmental considerations, it may not be possible to protect, or continue to defend land or property from flooding or erosion. The impacts of coastal defences on existing properties, coastal processes or the environment therefore need to be carefully assessed before construction. For these assessments the coastline is sub-divided into Policy Units: lengths of shoreline based on natural sediment movements and coastal processes, rather than administrative boundaries. A
