Views sought on future of Thorpeness, which is being threatened by coastal erosion
Time is running out for villagers to respond to a consultation about the long-term strategy to secure their community from the threat of coastal erosion.
Community group Save Thorpeness is seeking views on its draft Vision and Strategy, with the consultation running until 5pm on Friday, September 4.
The strategy has set out five objectives, including protecting life, property and infrastructure, developing coastal defences, preserving and enhancing the environment, strengthening the economy of the village and building a strong community voice.
Thorpeness is under increasing threat from coastal erosion, rising sea levels and more frequent storms.
Stormy weather last autumn and winter resulted in the demolition of 11 homes in North End Avenue due to the threat from the sea.
A spokesman for Save Thorpeness said: "Recent years have seen: the loss or demolition of 11 homes, significant erosion along North End Avenue, and the closure and disruption of public access routes.
"Without intervention, adaptation and long-term planning, these pressures are likely to increase."
The group is urging residents, visitors, and anyone with a connection to the village to share their views before the deadline.
Save Thorpeness added: "Thorpeness is special.
"It is home to: a permanent residential community, a thriving tourism and visitor economy, unique heritage and architecture, important landscapes, dunes and wildlife habitats, local businesses and employment, and recreational and sporting facilities enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.
"Our aim is to ensure that future generations can continue to live, work, and visit here."
Priority areas include building a strong evidence base on erosion and environmental change, exploring coastal defence options, maintaining public access to the coast, improving the resilience of the Meare, and using nature-based solutions to support adaptation.
The consultation asks whether people agree with the vision, whether the right priorities have been identified, and what additional ideas should be considered.
It also asks how Save Thorpeness should continue to work with the community and what skills or support residents might be able to offer.
The charity added: "The challenge is not simply how to protect individual stretches of coastline, but how to ensure that Thorpeness as a whole remains a thriving and sustainable community."
Responses can be submitted by completing the consultation form or by emailing info@savethorpeness.org.
Further information and the full draft strategy are also available on request.
