Guidance for authorities on the preparation of revised shoreline management plans (SMPs) is published on the Department's website. SMPs aim to provide a strategic framework within which sustainable coastal erosion and flood risk management strategies can be developed for the coast. It is essential to have sustainable policies in place to guide future investment and inform the development planning process. The analysis informing SMPs should be as full as possible, within the level of detail appropriate to this high level of strategic planning.
Social and environmental impacts should be taken into account in deciding the most sustainable management policies for the coastline insofar as it is practical to do so, and all available information used for the economic analysis. Approaches to helping communities adapt to a changing coastline, including addressing any social justice implications, are being considered under the Department's “Making space for water” programme.