Fourteen clifftop homes in Hemsby face 'imminent' collapse

Fourteen clifftop homes in Hemsby face 'imminent' collapse

Fourteen clifftop properties in Hemsby, Norfolk, have been identified as being at immediate risk of collapsing onto the beach below due to severe coastal erosion. Recent storms have caused more than 10 metres (32 feet) of land to be lost, prompting urgent warnings for residents, especially those living on The Marrams and Fakes Road. Local authorities have advised people not to stay in these coastal homes, particularly overnight on Thursday and throughout the weekend, as the threat of cliff falls intensifies.

Representatives from Great Yarmouth Borough Council emphasized the seriousness of the situation, acknowledging the distress faced by homeowners. “It is extremely traumatic for those affected, but coastal experts say there is a real risk of collapse,” stated a council spokesperson. The council highlighted that further damage is anticipated due to upcoming weather events, including Storm Goretti. This raises the likelihood of additional erosion that could endanger more properties in the area.

The council, which holds responsibility for coastal management, has directly contacted the owners of the 14 vulnerable houses to inform them about their options and the necessity of safely demolishing the buildings. “We have been liaising closely with people affected by erosion in Hemsby for some time, but the recent spate of storms and forecast of further damage from Storm Goretti means some properties are now in an even more precarious position,” the spokesperson explained. Ensuring public safety remains the council’s top priority as they collaborate with property owners to provide guidance and support during this challenging period.

In addition to these measures, council staff from the housing team have been stationed in the village to offer help and advice to the affected community. Since 2013, over 36 homes in Hemsby have either been lost to the sea or demolished, including eight properties removed between December and early January. Noting the rapid rate of erosion, officials warned that Hemsby’s coastline is among Europe’s fastest eroding, with climate change expected to exacerbate further land loss. The council also urged residents and visitors to avoid the dune face and heed warning signs in the area, mentioning that a section of Hemsby beach has been closed off due to safety concerns

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