About the Naze

For many years surveyors measured the rate of erosion of Walton cliffs as being 1.5 metres per year. In the last ten years, this has accelerated to between 3-5m in some areas. At this rate, the north end of the Naze will be lost to the sea within ten years.

The threat of coastal erosion

The cliffs in front of the Naze Tower were stabilised by the building of the Crag Walk platform. When built, it was recognised the cliffs would erode, opening up the north end of the structure to the sea and needing the original structure to be extended. The increasing rate of erosion seen on the cliffs has started this process after just ten years. If the Naze Tower is to remain action, has to be taken.

Protecting a unique habitat

Wildlife on the Naze is hugely diverse. Its landscape attracting 200,000 visitors each year is unique being part of the 2000 hectare Hamford Water National nature reserve. If the north end of the Naze is lost, the sea will breach into Hamford Water. Its fragile salt marshes – a complex habitat and a carbon sink secure the sea walls that provide flood protection from Walton round to Harwich. Changing tidal flow will impact the wildlife and all users of this magical environment. A change from which there will be no return.