News
NALC’S coastal communities network publishes survey
The National Association of Local Councils (NALC) coastal communities national network met online on 23 November 2023 and has launched a survey to help shape the network’s future.
NALC's national networks have several objectives, including connecting local councils and councillors across the country with common interests, providing mutual support and engaging groups around NALC's work. The coastal communities network is currently for local councils in coastal areas.
The survey aims to gain insight into the experiences of coastal communities within the local council sector and what they would like from their national network. The responses will help improve the delivery of future sessions and help the co-chairs focus on the networks' aims.
At the meeting, Dr. Joanne Williams from the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) delivered a presentation on rising sea levels and their impact on coastal communities. Dr. Williams emphasised the economic challenges of coastal flooding, discussed mitigation strategies, and highlighted the importance of controlling carbon emissions.
The session also included updates from the latest LGA Coastal Special Interest Group (SIG) meeting. Lisa Bowam focused on the SIG subgroups like Coastal Adaptation, Coastal Landfill, and Coastal Water Quality Working Groups. Lisa shared insights on ongoing collaborations, funding challenges, and initiatives addressing water quality issues. The network session concluded with a discussion, led by Stephanie Bennett, on litter clearance challenges in coastal areas that are legally protected, emphasising the need for clearer guidance for councils.