Cuckmere Estuary Partnership

10 December 2008

A partnership of local councils, heritage and conservation agencies have joined forces to protect the Cuckmere Estuary, and will be seeking the views of residents and local businesses about its long-term future.

The Environment Agency has just published its flood risk management strategy for the Estuary, stating it will withdraw maintenance of the river banks below Exceat Bridge. This will result in the banks, which are near the end of their useful life, failing over time and the area reverting to an intertidal estuary.

However, the Cuckmere Estuary Partnership favours a more managed approach. This would mean that access and recreation in this popular local area could be maintained, while allowing the gradual return to a naturally functioning estuary system. Working with nature in this way would enable the Partnership to plan for change and to optimise the benefits for people and wildlife.

Kate Cole of the Cuckmere Estuary Partnership explained: “We can’t ignore this problem. The current defences are reaching the end of their natural life, and water levels already reach the top of the banks at high tide.

“We don’t want to rule out any options, and we are actively encouraging everyone who cares about the Estuary to share their views. Our current thinking is that a managed realignment process would be best for wildlife, residents and visitors, and the local economy. It would allow footpaths and other amenities and management measures to be put in place before any major natural changes that may occur, and would enhance the outstanding natural beauty of the region.

“We recognise that the Environment Agency is unable to spend flood risk management money on this. Our aim is therefore to work together with the community to review the options, to develop the best possible outcome for the Estuary, and to then attempt to find alternative funding to make it happen.

“Over the coming months we will be talking to residents, local businesses and others about the future of the Estuary, as well as launching a website for people to share their views. We want everyone to be able to have their say, and we urge anyone with an interest in the issue to contact us to find out how they can be involved.”

Anyone wanting to take part should contact the Partnership on info@cuckmere.org.uk or 01323 874302 to register their interest.