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Kent has one of the longest and most varied coastlines in
England. Almost one third of the people of Kent live in coastal
districts.
For some the sea is merely the backdrop to their lives but a
significant number make their living from its ports and harbours,
industries, fishing grounds, tourist towns and beaches.
The coast has some of the finest heritage sites in the country,
together with exceptional sites of international importance for
wildlife. These include towering cliffs, lonely marshlands, popular
holiday towns, international ports and tiny harbours.
Our coast under threat
Rising sea levels, coastal erosion, over-fishing and the decline
in traditional holidaymaking are now challenging these assets.
The demand for maritime recreation, an ageing residential
population, and Kent's proximity to the world's busiest shipping
lanes generate other pressures.
There is therefore a growing need to manage the coast
responsibly and effectively for the benefit of all who use it in
any way.
Protecting our coast
In recent years a number of partnerships have been established
in Kent to manage important sections of the coastline, including
Medway Swale estuary, Thanet Coast and the Thames estuary.
These
countryside partnerships are beginning to demonstrate the
benefits of their work.
In addition to the work of these groups, individual coastal
authorities are managing the interests of their coastal region,
whilst the Environment Agency (opens in new window) and
Natural
England (opens in new window) play a regulatory and advisory
role.
Finally there is the work of special interest groups,
stakeholders and coastal industries that also contribute to the
sustainability of the Kent coast. Kent County Council plays a
strategic role on the coast.
By working in partnership with other coastal stakeholders, the
Kent Coastal Network co-ordinates activities, improves
communication and raises awareness of the important work being
undertaken for the benefit of the coast.
For more details on the network and to find out about what's
happening on the Kent coast, see the
Kent Coastal
Network website (opens in new
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