Why was the Blyth Estuary Group formed?

Following the September 2005 publication of the Environment Agency’s (EA) Blyth Estuary Strategy ‘Preferred Options’, local people became deeply concerned that the proposed ‘managed realignment’ of the southern river banks would have a serious effect on the future of Southwold Harbour and the safety of navigation within it.

The Blyth Estuary Group (BEG) was formed in February 2006 to address local concerns, oppose the EA’s Blyth Estuary Strategy and investigate and challenge the science claimed to back the ‘Managed Realignment’ proposals.

The EA’s new ‘Draft Strategy’ released in November 2007 now details the planned abandonment of the entire estuary by ‘withdrawal of maintenance’ within 20 years.

Who are we?

The Group comprises representatives of Waveney District Council, Suffolk Coastal District Council, Southwold Town Council, Walberswick Parish Council, Walberswick Sea Defence Group, Reydon Parish Council, Blythburgh Parish Council, Wenhaston Parish Council, Southwold RNLI, Southwold Harbour & River Blyth Users Association, Southwold Sailing Club, landowners – Andrew Blois of the Blois Estates and Walberswick Common Lands Charity (south banks), Andrew Hall of Old Hall Farm and Suffolk Wildlife Trust (north banks), Hektor Rous of Henham Park and Richard Steward from Walberswick (technical advisor to the BEG).

Why we Need your Help

Your donations to the Blyth Estuary Group will help repair and maintain the clay walls of the river Blyth, will reduce the risk of flooding to land and properties and will help to protect the infrastructure and safety of navigation in Southwold Harbour for the next generation.