Championing Coastal Communities

In a spirited debate held last week, Members of Parliament gathered to address the multifaceted issues faced by coastal communities across the country. Led by Steff Aquarone, MP for North Norfolk, the debate was not only a first for the new Parliament but also a critical platform to discuss the often overlooked challenges specific to coastal areas.

Coastal communities, from North Norfolk to Cornwall, contribute significantly to the nation's economy, culture, and environment. These regions, characterised by their unique geographical settings, offer vibrant tourism and hospitality sectors, celebrated cultural heritage, and significant environmental landscapes. Despite these contributions, MPs highlighted that coastal towns often endure economic hardship, underrepresentation in government, and environmental degradation, exacerbated by the pressures of climate change and coastal erosion.

A major concern raised during the debate was the health disparities between coastal and inland communities. Steff Aquarone pointed out that coastal areas like Hull and Great Yarmouth exhibit notably poorer health outcomes compared to their inland counterparts. This issue is compounded by infrastructural deficits, particularly in healthcare facilities, which require residents to travel substantial distances for essential services.

The debate also shed light on the acute housing crisis in coastal regions, driven by the proliferation of second homes and holiday lets which inflate property prices and rents, pushing local residents out of the housing market. The problem is particularly pronounced in towns like Wells-next-the-Sea, where a significant portion of the housing stock is not used as primary residences.

Responding to the myriad issues raised, MPs across party lines called for targeted government action. There was a strong consensus on the need for a dedicated Minister for Coastal Communities to ensure that the specific needs of these areas are addressed cohesively. Such a role would help streamline efforts across various government departments, from health to housing and environmental management.

Economic revitalisation through sustainable tourism and the renewable energy sector was another key theme. MPs advocated for harnessing coastal communities' potential in wind energy and other green technologies, which could provide a significant economic boost and job creation. Furthermore, the preservation of coastal environments was discussed, with a call to mitigate the impacts of sewage dumping and to enhance marine conservation efforts.

The debate concluded with a resounding agreement on the need for a holistic approach to addressing the challenges faced by coastal communities. By creating a dedicated ministerial role and focusing on sustainable economic development, health equity, and environmental protection, we can ensure that its coastal regions not only survive but thrive. The MPs' discussions accentuated a collective commitment to elevating the quality of life for residents and safeguarding these vital areas for future generations.

Read the full debate transcript here

Kerry Booth, Chief Executive, Rural Services Network: "Coastal communities, especially those in rural settings, hold untapped potential that, when nurtured, can significantly contribute to the nation's broader economic landscape. By investing in and unlocking the unique capabilities of these areas, we not only enhance local livelihoods but also drive greater national prosperity. It's imperative that we create sustainable development strategies that respect and amplify the intrinsic value of our rural coastal regions, ensuring they are not left behind but are integral to our economic future".