Coastal councils unite to tackle key challenges in North Devon

North Devon hosted coastal leaders to tackle housing, environment & more

North Devon recently welcomed 28 delegates, including councillors, officers from local councils, and representatives from various coastal and environmental organisations such as the RNLI, Coastal Partnership Network, Environment Agency, and Marine Management Organisation.

These attendees came from across the country as part of the Local Government Association’s (LGA) Coastal Issues Specialist Interest Group. Hosted by North Devon Councillor Malcolm Wilkinson from the 17th to the 19th of September, the visit included a series of site tours and presentations by council officers and partner organisations, focusing on key coastal challenges such as infrastructure resilience, regeneration, education, health, housing, and environmental sustainability.

Over the three-day event, councillors explored initiatives in Woolacombe, Mortehoe, and Ilfracombe, with presentations on topics such as rewilding, the North Devon World Surfing Reserve, and local regeneration efforts. They also visited key sites like the Community Land Trust coastal housing project and The Tunnels Beaches in Ilfracombe.

Councillor Wilkinson, lead member for costal communities, said: “It was an honour to welcome Councillors from across the country to North Devon. The visit has been an excellent opportunity to showcase the vital work being done in our coastal communities, from regeneration to housing, and environmental protection. We hope this visit fosters continued collaboration and innovative solutions to tackle the challenges we face along the UK’s coastline.”

Councillor Ernest Gibson, chair of the LGA Coastal SIG, and lead member for neighbourhoods and climate change at South Tyneside Council, said: "North Devon is a jewel in the crown of England's spectacular coastline. We are extremely grateful to the council, and all those who have taken the time to share with our Group the amazing and impactful work that they are delivering across the District.

“The learning will be shared with the wider Group and will add to the evidence we need to raise the profile of the challenges, and the possible solutions, direct to Government."

The visit concluded with the group's Annual General Meeting at the Landmark Theatre in Ilfracombe, offering an opportunity to reflect on the issues discussed and explore future collaborations to address coastal challenges nationwide.