Protecting our communities and defending Norfolk’s coastline: Parliamentary Petition

Linked below, you will find a copy of the Parliamentary Petition I have launched to give local people and others the chance to send a very clear message to the Government and the Environment Agency that this part of Norfolk MUST be protected. Reassurance to local people is essential.

As you will probably know, Malcolm Kerby - from Coastal Concern Action Group - and I have held meetings in Hickling, Potter Heigham and Sea Palling. Hundreds of people have turned out to each meeting. There was strong support for the plan to collect as many signatures as possible on this petition. Anything you can do to help collect signatures would be really appreciated. All those who visit this beautiful area should also have the chance to sign up. Please feel free to photocopy the petition as often as you wish.

I am also keen for as many people as possible to write to me expressing their views. All letters and emails will be presented to the Minister and to the Chief Executive of the Environment Agency - as well as Natural England. You should address letters to 15 Market Place in North Walsham. Emails should be sent to normanlamb@hotmail.com

We are very fortunate that we have strong communities locally. It is very important to make ourselves heard and to speak with one voice.

Many thanks in anticipation for any help you can offer.

Best wishes,

Norman Lamb,

Member of Parliament for North Norfolk

Download the Parliamentary Petition (PDF)

All 3 meetings were chaired by Malcolm Kerby of Coastal Concern Action Group in conjunction with Norman Lamb MP and were organised to give villagers the chance to voice their concerns following recent newspaper reports on Natural England plans to “abandon sea defences” in this area.

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These are the main, recurring points from the meetings, and the attendance at the meetings show the strength of feeling of the local communities.

The vast majority agree that the coast must be defended, social justice must be included in any plan & the local communities will fight for their rights in accordance with the Human Rights Act if necessary.

They will petition the Government for assurances that this area will be defended.

Download CCAG notes from public meetings, April 2008 (PDF)