Erosion-hit Thorpeness holds crisis meetings as fourth home is demolished

Crisis meetings are taking place in Thorpeness after rapid coastal erosion prompted the demolition of a fourth home; council officers say eight more properties have been flagged as at risk and some homeowners have been put on notice.

Crisis meetings are taking place in Thorpeness on the Suffolk coast after a period of rapid coastal erosion. Diggers began removing a fourth house in under three months. Council officers say a further eight properties have been identified as at risk and some homeowners have been put on notice about possible demolition. East Suffolk Council said long-term sea defences would cost millions and that it is working with the Environment Agency and the local MP to consider short-term options. Key facts: - A fourth home has been demolished following fast-moving cliff erosion reported in recent weeks. - Eight additional properties have been flagged as at risk and some owners have been warned they may face demolition in the coming weeks. - East Suffolk Council has begun meeting residents, and is coordinating with the Environment Agency and the local MP to explore short-term measures. - The council said there are no viable long-term solutions at Thorpeness and that building sea defences would cost millions; it has urged caution and noted warning signs in the area. Summary: The erosion has already led to multiple demolitions and heightened concern among villagers about flooding and loss of homes. Officials are continuing crisis meetings, coordinating with national agencies and the local MP, and have indicated some homeowners may receive demolition notices in the coming weeks.