The consultation exercise organised by the Environment Agency, Chichester District Council, and Arun District Council, has been arranged in order to get public opinion on what action should be taken.

‘Until now we have always received capital funding from central government,’ said Cllr Andrew Shaxson, Portfolio Holder for the Environment.

‘A technical report has been carried out and options have been put forward for the coastline from Pagham to East Head. Our biggest concern is that Central Government would no longer fund appropriate schemes. More pressure is being placed on the national budget and at present other schemes are being given greater priority.

‘Along with our partners we are looking for solutions and we want to ask local residents what their opinions are. Once we have received all of the feedback we can then start to work with our partners to decide the way forward and produce the strategy.

‘What must be made clear to residents is that this is the consultation stage and no decisions will be made until we hear what they have to say.’

Cllr Roger Elkins, Cabinet Member for Community Safety at Arun District Council, said,

‘We are keen for as many people as possible to get involved in the process and will be in contact with key groups including Parish and Town Councils.

‘This is an extremely important issue and so it is vital that residents in the affected areas are able to have their say.’

Climate change and the increased costs of sea defences have forced authorities to consider in detail whether defences are currently viable and if so, how long they will last.

The study produced paints the picture of what the District is likely to face over the next 100 years. Recent guidance from Defra (Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs) states that the area is likely to experience sea level rise approaching one metre during this time. Other factors that need to be considered are the frequency and severity of the storms.

Residents are now being asked to make their views known by filling in a questionnaire in the ‘planning for the future’ document’. This can be obtained by either calling 08708 506 506, or by visiting www.environment-agency.gov.uk/yourenv/consultations/current_consultations/ The consultation process will end on Wednesday 14 February 2007. Events, road shows and workshops will be also be arranged. Details of these will be released shortly.

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