Maps show coastal flood scenario

Maps showing parts of the north Kent coast under water are being put before councillors at a meeting to consider future sea defences.

Kent County Council's environment committee is looking at the Isle of Grain, Medway and Swale coastlines.

Under plans being put forward, some of the coastline will be managed with the shoreline allowed to move backwards and forwards, and defences further inland.

But some areas will have a "no active intervention policy", a report said.

Councillors have been advised to approve the shoreline management plans.

'Possible blight'

Papers prepared for the meeting indicate local authorities would be "seeking clarification over possible blight issues".

It said blight issues could affect residents intending to sell property where the medium or long-term policy is to realign inland sea defences.

Last November, a North Sea tidal surge put the county's coastal defences to the test.

The Environment Agency said up to 10,000 homes were protected, after Higham Marshes, Seasalter, Pegwell Bay, Folkestone and Sandwich Quay were all placed on alert at high tide.

There was minor flooding in some places, including the car park at Sandwich Quay, while high waves posed a potential threat in Broadstairs and Deal.

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