NEW studies will help to map out future coastal erosion around the Isle of Wight and explore what flood defences may be needed. 


The first phase of the two studies, organised by the Isle of Wight Council, will be an information gathering exercise in relation to the physical and natural environments, including coastal processes, economic data and an assessment of the condition of existing defences. 

The first study, involving Sandown Bay, will focus on the coastal defences which prevent coastal erosion and tidal flooding, covering the coastal area from Yaverland to Shanklin. 

The second study will focus on the coastal area of Ventnor, from Monks Bay to Steephill Cove. 

The aim of the studies, which will take place this year, is to identify the cost of replacement or alternative coastal defences, consider when future coastal defence schemes would be needed and identifying potential partnership funding sources for those future schemes. 

Isle of Wight Council Executive member for public protection, Cllr Dave Stewart, said: "These studies form part of our commitment to ensure that, with risks set to increase in the future, it is important to develop our priorities for future risk reduction for the Isle of Wight's coastal communities. 

"It is important that people in the community have their say and are able to ask any questions or contribute ideas at this early stage so I would encourage the public to do so.

"We don't perceive there to be any imminent danger at the moment, but hopefully the study will give us some better information and we'll be able to plan for the future."

If you would like to contribute any information you can email the Isle of Wight Council at coast@iow.gov.uk

The studies follow on from the recent coastal strategy prepared for the West Wight, which identified priority schemes for the coastline from Freshwater to East Cowes.