Living on the edge: how do perceptions of coastal erosion risk affect residential mobility decisions?

This paper explores the experiences of households affected by coastal erosion. In England alone 82,000 properties are predicted to be at risk by 2100. The paper advances the understanding of the effects of coastal erosion upon residential mobility decision-making, via interviews with residents living in areas of coastal risk along the Holderness Coast in the UK, the fastest eroding coastline in Europe. The research illustrates that whilst moves into the areas at risk are seemingly irrational, they are in fact the result of upon intuitive and individual judgments of perception of risks and benefits. Participants report the negative impacts of erosion in the study area (e.g. loss of physical infrastructure), yet it was also clear they derived many benefits from living within the study area, including the appreciation of the seascape and access to natural amenities. There was also a strong emotional connection associated with the Holderness Coast meaning that many participants were unwilling to move away. For some, the negative impact upon house prices meant some household’s financial resources could not support a move away from risk, for others the benefit of a discounted home served to encourage a move into the area, despite the presence of risk. The evidence has several implications for the management of coastal erosion. Whilst outright compensation is not advocated in this paper, there is a clear need for additional support for relocation, which should include financial support for roll-back and provision of appropriate and suitability located alternative accommodation, particularly for lower-income households.

Highlights
Amenity benefits and attachment to coastal areas can outweigh perceptions of the risk of coastal erosion.

Low house prices due to coastal erosion can attract individuals to move to areas at risk.

Lack of financial and practical support as well as place attachment can prevent or discourage households to move away from risk.

Physical decline and perceptions of unfairness regarding coastal management can foster mistrust between local institutions and residents.