Coastal management in the Solent: The stakeholder perspective

This paper presents the findings of a survey of stakeholder views concerning the management of the Solent and the role of the Solent Forum. Views were obtained through a questionnaire survey of participants at the Solent Forum Coastal Management Conference 2004. The results of the survey were used to inform the Solent Forum's work plan and priority work areas. It was found that coastal defence is the key concern of stakeholders, that complex legislation is the main barrier to effective management of the Solent, that most drivers of change relate to national and European policy, and that sea level rise is the key future management challenge for the Solent. In this context, the evidence suggested that the Solent Forum should retain a role that facilitates co-ordinated management and brokers stakeholder involvement in coastal decision-making. It was concluded that given the complexities of the position facing the Solent Forum, any decisions on its future approach should be a reflection of the needs of all stakeholders working in partnership.