Coastal Communities

Alex Cunningham discussed the environmental and economic impact on coastal communities along the north-east coast due to declining catches of seafood. He mentioned that local fishermen had suffered a 90% drop in their usual hauls, with some catching only 10% of what they would normally catch. The issue is linked to chemical pollution, specifically pyridine. There are no fish in the sea off Teesside, highlighting an ecological disaster and questioning the usefulness of the coastal development fund for fishermen.

Brixham and surrounding villages face challenges in healthcare, including GP shortages and poor access to dentists. Better bus routes are needed to encourage more people to use public transport. The all-party parliamentary group for shellfish aquaculture aims to increase opportunities within coastal communities while supporting sustainable food production.

The MP focused on climate change adaptation and transport connectivity in coastal communities. She supported ambitious coastal defence schemes like Eastbourne's £100 million project, and called for road investment, high-speed rail connections, and Gatwick's second runway. Additionally, she emphasized the need for fairer funding formulas and VAT reduction to support social care and tourism.

Coastal communities face diverse challenges, including poor digital connectivity and transport infrastructure. It takes longer to travel by train from London to coastal towns than to major cities like Manchester or Birmingham. Improving digital connectivity is a cost-effective way to encourage people to move to coastal areas.

Jim Shannon discussed coastal erosion issues in Strangford, citing research by Professors Andrew Cooper and Derek Jackson. He called for a coastal observatory to quantify challenges and develop strategic action plans using levelling-up funds. Shannon also noted higher levels of deprivation and an ageing population in coastal towns compared to inland areas. Asked the Minister to send details on the money allocated to Northern Ireland through the coastal communities fund.

She expressed concern about the industrialisation of the Dee estuary due to the Prime Minister's announcement on lifting the moratorium on extracting shale gas, highlighting public opposition and environmental risks. She also raised issues regarding sewage pollution in coastal areas.

Ms Elphicke highlighted the importance of coastal renaissance, citing research from the Housing and Finance Institute. She expressed concern over policies favouring big cities rather than coastal towns and villages in her constituency, which is crucial for Britain's gateway to Europe. She also noted that more than two-thirds of the most deprived small areas are in coastal communities, with nine out of ten being seaside places based on 2015 indices, while the latest figures show 25 out of 30 most deprived areas remain in coastal zones.

Peter Aldous discussed Waveney's economic challenges, particularly in Lowestoft, where the fishing industry has declined over 40 years. He noted positive developments like CEFAS headquarters and East Coast College initiatives but highlighted funding disparities in education, local government, and enterprise zones that need addressing.

Richard Thomson highlighted the economic challenges faced by coastal communities, including heavy reliance on tourism and seasonal labor. He mentioned Aberdeen's offshore wind farm project which powers the entire city but noted frustration with energy pricing structures preventing local benefits. Thomson also addressed Brexit impacts, particularly on Scotland's fishing industry with langoustine exports halving from 2010 to 2019. Funding disparities were pointed out, with Aberdeenshire receiving £8 million under the shared prosperity fund compared to over £23 million during EU structural funding periods. He advocated for English authorities' involvement in the North Sea Commission to address common challenges.

Robin Millar highlighted the beauty and challenges of Aberconwy's coastal community, noting the current energy crisis has compounded issues. He welcomed Government support to ease fears and protect jobs but emphasised the need for long-term sustainable solutions through clean energy projects such as tidal lagoons and nuclear power stations. Noted a contrast between investment for growth and taxation approaches, questioning whether there is agreement on this approach.

Order. There are actually quite a few more people standing than submitted to speak through the Speaker's Office, so I am afraid I will have to impose a time limit of three and a half minutes with immediate effect.

Criticised the dysfunction of the British state, overcentralisation and lack of economic growth in coastal communities. Highlighted the decline of fishing, shipbuilding, and port work jobs alongside the impact of austerity measures on social fabric. Pointed out that Conservative-held seaside towns are likely to be pushed into poverty due to cost of living crisis. Emphasised the need for levelling up policies and support for local regeneration plans.

Selaine Saxby highlighted the shortage of affordable housing in coastal areas due to an increase in short-term holiday lets and second homes. She noted that full-time workers in North Devon earn £13.29 per hour, significantly lower than the national average of £15.65. Property prices have increased by over 22% in her constituency, exacerbating the housing crisis. Agreed that the coastal communities fund was excellent and requested its return.

Representing a constituency with two coasts, the MP highlighted the challenges faced by coastal communities in Cornwall. He urged for a Minister for coastal communities to address issues such as economic diversification and unaffordable housing, specifically calling out the impact of holiday lets on local employment. Defended the government's actions on sewage discharge, stating it was the first government to take action on this issue.

Representing Ynys Môn, a unique and beautiful island with a seasonal tourist industry, Virginia Crosbie highlighted the economic challenges faced outside peak season. She mentioned low GVA rates, closed shops, high deprivation in Holyhead, and loss of major employers. She advocated for targeted support through regeneration projects like the £17 million bid for Holyhead town centre.