COASTAL defences around Millom may only be actively maintained for the next 20 years, according to a new report.

The proposals, identified in Shoreline Management Plan 2, show minimal intervention would be taken after 20 years at Millom Marshes, while coast between Haverigg and Eskmeals could see no active intervention at all.

The consultation document outlines potential policies for the future of the coastline in the North West and North Wales and identifies a handful of area in South Copeland as receiving protection.

The plan labels sections of coast with one of four categories advance the line – which would see new defences built on the seaward side of existing protection, hold the line – which would see repairs done, managed realignment – which sees minimal intervention and no active intervention – which allows the shoreline to naturally realign.

Villages such as Kirkby and Askam could be actively defended for the next 50 years, but Millom Marshes to the south of the town has been classed as ‘hold the line’ for just 20 years before being removed to “managed realignment”.

Red Hills, the town’s former industrial area would see no active intervention, though Haverigg and Hodbarrow Nature reserve would be defended. The potential threat was highlighted at the latest Millom Town Council meeting by councillor Brian Crawford. Cllr Crawford spoke of his concern regarding the proposed stance towards the issue.

He said: “I have a copy of the results of the latest consultation on shoreline management and I am very concerned. They are not going to bother with areas just past Haverigg and further on the Duddon Estuary.

“With the predicted rise in sea levels they will totally wipe out areas like the railway system between here and Askam.”

Cllr Crawford argued the study highlighted the potential importance of a tidal barrage across the Duddon Estuary.

He said: “One of the tick boxes for the Duddon barrage is if it is constructed it will provide some protection.

“This sort of thing can seriously affect the future of an area.”

The document is currently in the final draft stages and will open for consultation with councillors by late summer with a plan of being “signed off” by December this year.

Story in the North West Evening Mail