POLICY LE29 Undeveloped Coastal Zone

Development will only be permitted on the undeveloped coast provided that it does not increase the risk of flooding or coastal erosion

In addition:

1. the development must be essential for coastal protection; or
2. the development is essential for marine navigation; or
3. the development conserves or enhances the quality and landscape character of the coastal zone.

6.107 Land use planning is limited in its ability to influence matters off-shore and many coastal issues are dealt with through Integrated Coastal Zone Management and Shoreline Management Plans (St Bees Head to the Scottish Border - Sub-cell 11e). These set out the specific strategy for dealing with coastal issues such as defence. The Council will continue to support this work. However, land use planning can help minimise the impact that development can have on coastal areas.

6.108 The Joint Structure Plan has identified a coastal zone which includes the solway coast and a management zone including additional inland areas. Carlisle District has only 7 miles of coastline and all of this is undeveloped. Much of this coastal zone area is covered by other policies of this plan however no policy directly relates to the immediate coastline. This policy is intended to guide those proposals in conjunction with others in particular the AONB policy. The Solway Coast AONB Management Plan identifies many issues that are of concern relating to coastal uses and much if the local environment is sensitive to change.

6.109 Given the tidal nature of the Solway combined with the potential forclimatic change the risk from flooding on the coast is a serious issue that must be taken into account when considering any development proposals. Much of the immediate coast is marshland (Burgh Marsh and Rockcliffe Marshes) and has evolved as a wetland environment. Any impact on this environment could lead to flooding elsewhere along the coast. The areas most liable to flood are indicated on Flood Zone maps produced by the Environment Agency.

6.110 The Solway Firth Partnership has been established to act as a multiagency Forum working together to ensure that the quality and integrity of these areas is not compromised.

6.111 There may be limited opportunities for sensitive development in the coastal zone primarily to enhance the landscape and deal with the impact of visitor pressure on the high quality landscape. In particular, the establishment of a long distance North West Coastal Trail from Chester to Carlisle is expected to be implemented during the timescale of this plan.