Hemsby and coastal erosion - frequently asked questions

The coastline in our part of East Anglia is one of the most dynamic and rapidly changing in Europe. For decades, storms, strong winds and high tides have had an impact on our communities.

Continued erosion on this stretch of coastline is inevitable and Hemsby is particularly affected, which means Great Yarmouth Borough Council (GYBC) is working hard with its partners and other agencies to plan how we best adapt to the changing shape of our coast.

Storms and high tides meant five more homes in the dunes at The Marrams had to be demolished in December 2023. Reports by Great Yarmouth Borough Council's building surveyors had concluded that the erosion meant the properties had been left too close to the cliff edge and were structurally unsound and unsafe.

The erosion and loss of a stretch of privately owned access road in The Marrams means that residents in the village understandably have questions about what the future might hold for their homes.

This section attempts to address some of the most frequently asked questions and what advice and support is available for those affected by coastal erosion.