COASTAL erosion could put an estimated £1.2 billion worth of buildings, roads and railways at risk, according to new research for the Scottish Government.
Researchers from the University of Glasgow have mapped the Scottish coastline in an effort to help the Government and councils protect the landscape from erosion and coastal flooding.
The work is part of the Scottish Government’s Dynamic Coast project in response to the risks posed by climate change, with £12 million announced to help local authorities take preventative measures over four years.
Net Zero Secretary Michael Matheson said: “I welcome the publication of Dynamic Coast 2 which shows us that at least £20bn of assets, road, rail and residential property, lie within 50 metres of our coast.
“With nature protecting some £14.5bn of these assets, maintaining our natural coastal defences must be a key part of our resilience and adaptation strategies. We are already locked into future sea level rise and therefore we must plan for the worst case scenario on the coast.
“Modelling suggests however that we will see erosion influencing the majority of shores this decade.
“The Dynamic Coast maps will be a valuable tool in our fight against climate change, and we are now preparing guidance to help local authorities produce new adaptation plans.”
Speaking ahead of a visit to the sand dunes in Montrose, which help protect the town from coastal flooding and erosion, Matheson added: “Here in Montrose, up to 80 metres of beach has eroded since the 1980s and a further 120 metres could erode over the next 40 years, breaching the main dune ridge.
“Angus Council is working with local stakeholders, including Montrose Port Authority and Montrose Golf links, to identify the most sustainable solution for the town.”
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