Lowestoft's Tidal Flood Fears

Thursday, 19 February 2026 06:00

Image of the proposed and now cancelled flood barrier at Lowestoft

Lowestoft has been described as “critically unprepared” for a major tidal flood in a stark new report.

The warning comes from the Town and Country Planning Association following multiple visits to the town in recent years at the invitation of campaign group Use Your Voice. Senior members say their concerns have become more urgent with each visit.

In the House of Commons earlier this year, Jess Asato also raised concerns about the town’s flood resilience.

The report argues that without phase two of the Lowestoft Strategic Flood Defence scheme — the proposed tidal barrier — the town lacks adequate protection against a significant sea surge. Phase two was abandoned by East Suffolk Council after it became clear the project would not meet the Government’s cost-benefit criteria.

While new concrete flood walls and temporary barriers have been installed, the report claims these measures were designed to work alongside a tidal barrier and are insufficient on their own.

Six areas of weakness are highlighted, including emergency planning, protection for homes and businesses, and the long-term economic impact of not having a barrier. Questions are also raised about recent Environment Agency decisions relating to waterfront development in Kirkley.

The report concludes that cancellation of the tidal barrier leaves Lowestoft vulnerable to a future flood event — particularly as sea levels rise and extreme weather becomes more frequent.

East Suffolk Council and the Environment Agency have previously stated that flood risk is continually assessed and managed under national guidance.