Refreshed and collaborative approach

The Waveney Pathfinder Project was originally set up by Defra to develop innovative solutions for adapting to coastal change. In Waveney, this included the vulnerable community at Easton Bavents which was successfully chosen to establish what options there are for managing the effects of coastal erosion and its impacts on community life and businesses.

Initial proposals from the Project were criticised by residents during a recent consultation and the Board is now looking forward to the opportunity to address these concerns with the local community. 

Cllr David Ritchie, Chair of the Board for this multi-agency project said: "We have listened and we recognise the very clear strength of feeling within the Reydon community and although these were initial ideas, it is clear that a collaborative approach, directly engaging with residents is the best way to achieve practical solutions and earn trust.

"The Board is determined to work with everyone to clarify any misunderstandings that may have arisen and to seek valued input from a wider range of people before agreeing a way forward that is acceptable to the wider community. With this in mind, the next step is for the Board to set up workshops, with a range of local people invited to debate and discuss various issues to date and establish the criteria for a successful and mutually agreeable outcome."

A date for the workshops have yet to be agreed, however it is hoped that the first will take place in the next six to eight weeks and will be widely advertised.