Environment Agency Chair Alan Lovell visited the Hampshire coast on 16 June 2025 to review draft proposals for protecting a 15km stretch of coastline between Hurst Spit and Lymington from rising sea levels.
During his day-long visit, Alan walked along Hurst Spit to observe how the natural barrier is expected to evolve over time and discuss sustainable options for managing coastal erosion and flood risk in the area.
Alan Lovell, Chair of the Environment Agency, said:
Seeing this coastline first-hand brings alive the challenges we face in protecting it.
The Hurst Spit to Lymington Strategy represents our commitment to developing solutions that work with natural processes while safeguarding homes, businesses and the environment that makes this area so special.
Alan’s visit included hearing about the land purchase location and discussions about strategy options for the more developed area around Bath Road. He then explored one of the coastal lagoons to gain insight into the environmental aspects of the strategy as part of the Environment Agency’s Plan for Change.
In the afternoon, Alan met with members of the Save Lymington and Keyhaven group (SLAK) to discuss concerns raised by some local organisations about the strategy’s potential impact on the Lymington River, which is crucial to the local marine sector.
Claire Francis, flood and coastal risk manager at the Environment Agency, said:
Alan Lovell’s visit highlights the importance of this strategy to the Environment Agency.
Having his expertise and perspective on the ground will be invaluable as we continue developing options that balance protection of properties with environmental considerations.
The Environment Agency is working with New Forest District Council, Hampshire County Council, Natural England, and local stakeholders to develop sustainable options for the coastline.
Professor Martin Hurst of the Southern Regional Flood and Coastal Community, said:
Alan Lovell’s visit gave us a valuable opportunity to see the detailed work happening with local communities to develop this strategy.
The strategy is taking a careful, evidence-based approach that recognises both the environmental sensitivity of this coastline and its importance to local people’s lives and livelihoods.
By working together with residents, businesses and partner organisations, the strategy is creating a sustainable plan that will protect this treasured stretch of Hampshire coastline for generations to come.
Over 60 residents have participated in community drop-in sessions, with more events scheduled throughout the summer. These sessions allow members of the public to ask questions or receive clarifications relating to the strategy.
For more information on the strategy, visit the Hurst Spit to Lymington Strategy website.
Background
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Alan Lovell became Chair of the Environment Agency in 2022.
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The Hurst Spit to Lymington Strategy covers internationally designated habitats, heritage sites and residential areas.
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Formal consultation on the strategy will begin in June 2026.
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The next community engagement drop-in session for the Hurst Spit to Lymington Strategy will be held 10am to 1pm on 19 June 2025 at Bridge Community Centre Cafe in Milford on Sea.
