Decision Details

Implemented

Demolition of Properties at Thorpeness

Yes

This Officer Decision was taken by the Chris Bally, Chief Executive. 

Mon 19 Jan 2026

To consider the Demolition of Properties at Thorpeness.

Planning & Coastal Management

Approved budget

Yes

Not Applicable

None

None

Officer

Chris Bally

Yes

Yes

No

No

The coastline at Thorpeness had been eroded for many years. However, recent bad weather has meant that more of the coastline had been destroyed, which means that more properties have been and are at risk of falling into the sea.

It was and is important that the demolition of properties took and takes place in an ordered manner to ensure safety of the homeowners, local residents and visitors.

Up to £500,000

1. Forward fund all demolition costs for property owners (Claim CAG and cover difference - and do not seek any payment from owners regardless of time of purchase (if primary residence)
2. Forward fund all demolition costs for property owners (Claim CAG and cover difference - and not seek any payment from owners, but only if the owners purchased the purchased pre-2009) i.e. they will be eligible for the CAG
3. Forward fund all demolition costs for property owners (Claim CAG but do not cover difference - and then seek payment from owners for any difference)
4. Do not forward fund any costs and leave for owners to fund entirely

1) To forward fund from reserves up to £500,000 [Five hundred thousand pounds] in total, all demolition costs for property owners in Thorpeness since and including October 2025, whose properties are demolished with their agreement or where it appears or appeared to the Building Control Partnership Manager or officers operating under his authority, of East Suffolk Council that a building or structure is or was in such a condition or state or part of a building or structure, is or was in such a condition or state, or is or was used to carry such loads, as to be dangerous pursuant to Sections 77, 78, 80 and 81 of the Building Act 1984; and 

2) To cover the balance of the costs of demolition outstanding after the receipt of the Coastal Erosion Assistance Grant (CEAG); and

3) Not to seek any payment from owners in relation to demolition costs, regardless of time of purchase and regardless of whether primary residence or not.

None

None