The Cuckmere Meanders : Let’s Be Positive!
Environmental pressure group the South Downs Society has today (17 December 2008) called on the government’s Environment Agency to adopt a positive approach to managing flood risk in the iconic beauty spot, the Cuckmere Meanders.
The Society had previously commented on the Agency’s draft flood management proposals for the Cuckmere estuary in East Sussex, with its famous river meanders, but is disappointed that the Agency is taking a negative approach to its responsibilities.
“During the consultation which the Agency carried out on its proposals, we were sympathetic to what they had to say about the need to make a fundamental change to the flood management regime,“ said the Society’s Planning Officer, Steve Ankers. “We fully recognise the need to adapt to climate change and rising sea levels and agree with the Agency that forever raising the height of the river banks just isn’t the answer – even if there was the money to pay for it!
“But we should all be much more positive about what can be achieved in this iconic landscape. The Cuckmere Estuary Partnership brings together key stakeholders with an interest in maintaining and improving the valley landscape, wildlife, access and recreation and the Agency has a vital role in contributing to its success. With all their wide-ranging interests and responsibilities the Agency should be sending out a more upbeat message about what they can continue to bring to the party. The South Downs Society has already offered assistance in expertise, ideas and funding and we look forward to getting round the table.”
In its response to the Agency’s consultation the Society had set out its list of basic requirements for any new flood management scheme – a clearly visible pattern of river meanders; a grazing regime on the valley floor; continuing footpath access on both sides of the valley; new routes to replace any lost to flooding; and the retention and protection of the canoe barn and adjacent car park south of the A259.