Hemsby Lifeboat to move station over coastal erosion fears

Hemsby Lifeboat station, which is 70m (230 ft) from the beach, is to relocate over erosion fears

A lifeboat service is planning to relocate over fears its station will be lost to coastal erosion.

Hemsby Lifeboat, near Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, said it was making a "proactive" decision.

Posting on social media, it said: "Coastal erosion poses a significant risk to our current location."

It is now looking for a new boathouse and has appealed for spaces to temporarily store equipment during its relocation.

"Rest assured, our commitment to serving and safeguarding lives at sea remains steadfast," the independent service said.

"We believe it's our responsibility to ensure the uninterrupted service we've proudly provided for decades.

"Instead of waiting for the inevitable, we are proactively planning to move within the next 12 to 18 months."

Rock sea defences at the lifeboat launch site have failed to stop erosion from the sea

The move comes after coxswain Dan Hurd warned high tides had caused erosion to the lifeboat car park near The Gap, and that this was putting the station at risk.

The coastline at Hemsby has suffered severe erosion over recent years and in October another 3m to 4m (10-13ft) of beach was lost to the sea.

Planning permission has been granted for a granite rock defence, known as a berm.

The lifeboat service said it would continue to use The Gap to launch from and would "continue our commitment to maintaining that entry point for the lifeboat and local residents, businesses, and visitors for as long as possible."

Great Yarmouth Borough Council has been seeking £15m towards the sea defences, although inflation has pushed the estimated cost closer to £20m.

In December, further homes were knocked down after an eroding sandy clifftop left five bungalows teetering over the edge.