Shoreline Management Plans (SMPs) are non-statutory documents aimed at producing sustainable policies for the coastal defence of the shorelines around the UK. They were first introduced in 1994 and were believed to be a substantial step forward in addressing some key shoreline management issues. SMPs are prepared to take into account natural coastal processes and issues relating to the environment and human needs. Coastal defence is the protection of the coastline from erosion and flooding by the sea.

Shoreline Management Plans in the East Riding
General Information on SMPs

Shoreline Management Plans in the East Riding

HECAG Shoreline Management Plan (SMP)

The SMP addressing the section of coastline between Flamborough Head to Donna Nook was produced by Posford Haskoning 1998 (formerly Posford Duvivier) for the Humber Estuary Coastal Advisory Group (HECAG) and splits this section of coastline into eighteen management units. Management Units 1 to 15 cover the relevant parishes within this website. Link to the full text of the HECAG Shoreline Management Plan (Posford Duvivier, 1998)

Humber Estuary Shoreline Management Plan (Environment Agency, 2000)

The Humber estuary SMP was produced by the Environment Agency (2000) and divides the estuary into eight management sections from Spurn Head to Donna Nook. The Shoreline Management Plan provides a framework for investment in flood defences over the next 50 years, with the major consideration being the rise in sea level relative to land. This rise was approximately 3mm per year throughout the last century and it could increase in the future as a result of global warming (Environment Agency, 2002).
Link to the full text of the Humber estuary Shoreline Management Plan (Environment Agency, 2000)

General Information on SMPs

East Riding of Yorkshire Council - ICZM plan

The theme of coastal erosion and shoreline management was addressed in the newly published East Riding Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plan under the section 'Managing the Coast'. East Riding of Yorkshire Council (2002).
Link to ICZM plan.

SMP Position Statement - English Nature

A position statement from English Nature on SMPs and their importance to the sustainability of nature conservation. Link to SMP position statement.

Please see specific Parishes for shoreline management options.