Storm boards to be installed along Seaford promenade: update about coastal flood protection measures ahead of Storm Austen
Seaford Town Council says it has been notified by the Environment Agency that storm boards will be installed along Seaford promenade on Friday, October 23.
The council made the announcement ahead of Storm Austen in an update about seasonal coastal flood protection measures and winter access arrangements.
The storm is set to hit Sussex on Friday and the Met Office said a yellow warning for wind has been issued for southern parts of England. This warning is in place for Seaford from midnight to 5pm.
The Met Office said: “Storm Austen bringing a spell of strong winds with transport disruption likely and possible damaging winds in some areas.”
Seaford Town Council explained that the coastal measures aim to protect the seafront ‘while maintaining beach access wherever possible’.
The council said: “The storm boards form an important part of the town’s coastal flood defence arrangements, helping to protect the seafront and nearby areas during periods of adverse weather, high tides and rough seas.”
It said the coast can experience ‘powerful winds, high tides and severe coastal conditions’ during the autumn and winter months.
The council continued: “These can cause waves and shingle to overtop the sea defences, potentially affecting the promenade, nearby roads and surrounding areas.
“The concrete sea wall along Seaford promenade includes gaps to allow pedestrian access to the beach. The storm boards, also known as stop logs, are fitted into these openings to create a more continuous barrier, helping to reduce the risk of water and shingle passing through the gaps during stormy conditions. While the boards cannot remove all risks associated with coastal flooding and overtopping, they provide an important additional layer of protection during periods of increased risk.”
The council said three designated locations, known as ‘the agreed winter gaps’, will stay open to help pedestrians access the beach. These are Buckle Car Park, West View and The Causeway. These locations will normally be open during autumn and winter unless a Flood Alert, Flood Warning or Severe Flood Warning is issued, or if other circumstances show that further action is needed.
The council added: “If the flood risk increases, the storm boards may need to be reinstated at these locations to help strengthen the coastal defences. The Environment Agency will arrange for its Field Team to remove the boards at the three designated locations as part of the agreed winter arrangements with Seaford Town Council, with the gaps remaining subject to monitoring and any necessary action in response to flood risk.”
The town council is urging residents and visitors to be aware of weather warnings, to take care along the seafront during strong winds and rough seas, and to follow safety advice and restrictions.