Further erosion warning issued as homes demolished

A council has warned spring tides could bring the risk of more coastal erosion after five clifftop properties had to be demolished.

The homes in Hemsby, Norfolk, were removed because they were deemed not to be "structurally sound."

High tides and strong winds caused part of the access road to collapse last month.

Great Yarmouth Borough Council said: "There was a risk the buildings could have fallen on to the beach."

The council commissioned Anglia Demolition to demolish the properties at The The Marrams.

Two homes are left standing at the southern end of the demolition site.

The council said: The decision to demolish the buildings this weekend was taken as there was a risk that the buildings could have fallen on to the beach due to the imminent risk of the cliff collapsing further."

It said all residents affected had been found temporary alternative accommodation but that the housing needs of those in Hembsy had to be considered alongside those of people elsewhere in borough.

Residents and councillors have called on the government to create a minister for the coast.

Conservative county councillor James Bensly raised the campaign at a council meeting on Tuesday.

On social media he said: "The current system is not fit for purpose. The one size fits all approach is not appropriate, needs changing."

More spring tides expected later this week.

On Facebook, the borough council said: "The residents and public are advised to exercise caution when in the vicinity of The Marrams."

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