The Hurst Spit to Lymington team will be on hand to answer questions about the strategy

THE team behind a controversial management strategy for the coastline between Hurst Spit and Lymington have launched a series of fortnightly drop-in sessions starting today (Wednesday).

The Environment Agency, together with New Forest District Council and JBA Consulting have announced the new public engagement sessions in response to growing anxiety over plans to roll back the sea wall and halt the active maintenance of Hurst Spit

As reported in the A&T, a plan to ‘roll back’ the sea wall along sections of the coast has been heavily criticised by local sailing clubs and marine organisations, which say it could cause Lymington River to become unnavigable, and severely hit local marine businesses.

Another proposals which would see Hurst Spit maintained for the next 10 to 20 years before it is left to nature, have also been slammed by campaign group Save Lymington and Keyhaven (Slak).

The group – comprising representatives from the Royal Lymington and Lymington Town sailing clubs, Keyhaven Yacht Club, Hurst Castle Sailing Club, Wightlink, Lymington RNLI, Lymington Yacht Haven, Berthon Boat Company and Lymington Marina, recently urged the national park authority to step in and oppose the plans.

The fortnightly drop-in sessions will take place at venues in in Milford and Lymington, where residents will be able to find out more about the strategy, speak to the teams involved, and ask questions.

NFDC environment and sustainability portfolio holder Cllr Geoffrey Blunden, said: “We’re committed to working closely with our community to manage our coastline responsibly and sustainably for the future.

“These drop-in sessions are an opportunity for residents to ask questions of the strategy team and share their thoughts, as we work together with our partners to shape a strategy that addresses the risks of coastal flooding and erosion.”

“I encourage people to come along, ask questions, and be part of the conversation. Their input is invaluable in helping us to build a resilient coastline for generations to come.”

Hurst Spit to Lymington Strategy project director Dave Martin, added: “Our work to plan for the continued impacts of climate change on the coastline from Hurst Spit to Lymington is for the people that live and work in and visit the area, so we’re really keen to learn more about what is important to local people and help answer any questions that they may have about our approach so far.

Once finalised in late 2026, the Hurst Spit to Lymington Strategy will recommend options to manage flood and erosion risk over the next 100 years.

Drop in sessions will take place from 10am to 1pm at:

• Wednesday 7th May, Lymington Library

• Thursday 22nd May, Bridge Community Centre Cafe, Milford

• Wednesday 4th June, Lymington Town Sailing Club

• Thursday 19th June, Bridge Community Centre, Milford

• Wednesday 2nd July, Lymington Library

• Thursday 17th July, Bridge Community Centre Cafe, Milford

• Wednesday 6th August, Lymington Town Sailing ClubE

• Thursday 21st August, Bridge Community Centre Cafe, Milford

• Wednesday 3rd September, Lymington Library

• Thursday 18th September, Bridge Community Centre Cafe, Milford

Further details are available online athurstspit2lymington.co.uk