A new study predicts that almost 200,000 properties in England may have to be abandoned by 2050 because of rising sea levels. The authors estimate that around one third of the country’s coast will be put under pressure by rising sea levels, with the South West, the North West and East Anglia in particular at risk.

As the authors note, while larger cities are likely to enjoy continued protection, it will be difficult to justify the cost of building effective defences in small rural settlements. They therefore suggest that honest debate is required to identify areas that are not feasible to defend and help those affected.

Sea levels around England’s coast are projected to rise by around 35cm by 2050, increasing flood risk and accelerating coastal erosion.