The Norfolk Broads face severe damage from climate change unless more is done to help habitats recover, a report by Natural England said.

The study into the future of the Broads recommends new wetlands are created and species given more support before sea levels rise further.

The report authors found climate change will lead to the Broads becoming salty.

They said coastal defences will come under more pressure, while wetlands face harm from floods and drought.

‘New policies needed’

Natural England said changing conditions would also lead to the loss of some plants and animals.

They risk being replaced by non-native and “invasive” species, it said.

Shaun Thomas, Natural England’s East of England director, said: “There is a clear need for Natural England to continue its work with government, organisations with a stake in the Broads and local communities to develop integrated responses to climate change in this, the UK’s premier wetland.”

Mr Thomas said new policies were needed to determine how the Broads could adapt to climate change.

Stephen Johnson, chairman of the Broads Authority, said the research emphasised the “need to get our habitats robust and resilient”.

Natural England also confirmed its support for the current policy to maintain the line of defence on the stretch of coast between Eccles and Winterton for at least 50 years.

The Environment Agency said it would study Natural England’s report and give “careful consideration” to what action it takes.

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