Hemsby clifftop demolition continues as residents move out

Demolition work has continued on clifftop properties at risk on the Norfolk coast as people look for alternative accommodation.

Great Yarmouth Borough Council said this week that it had written to the residents of 14 properties in the Marrams and Fakes Road, Hemsby, advising them to leave their homes due to expected bad weather.

Daniel Candon, the council’s portfolio holder for economic development and growth, said about 8in (about 20cm) was lost to the sea on Thursday evening.

Cliff Williams, 86, one of those looking for alternative accommodation, said: “I thought I would see my days out here… I am stuck for words sometimes.”

The council has been offering temporary accommodation, with housing staff based in the village to provide advice and assistance.

It said in a statement: “To help reassure residents and support public safety, police will be increasing their presence in the area, and the fire service will also be keeping a close watch on the situation over the weekend.”

Williams said that when he first moved into his bungalow on Fakes Road 25 years ago, he and his late wife barely had a view of the sea.

“You’d look out and all you would see is sandbank where the sea is now,” he said.

Speaking to the BBC on Friday, he said he had been offered temporary accommodation by friends but wanted to find something more permanent.

“I have made plans to hire a container until I decide what I am going to do with all different stuff I have got.”

Candon, a Conservative councillor, said: “No houses went into the ocean last night, but one thing that has taken us by surprise is the speed at which coastal erosion is happening right now.”

He said seven households moved into emergency accommodation, with five declining the offer and staying in their homes.

“The risk is there and risk potential to life or home, and we want to do all we can to prevent that from happening,” he said.

“This is absolutely devastating [as is] the speed it is coming on… These people are losing homes and memories, and it is a stressful time for them.”

Sinead Connell, 28, and her partner have lived in one of the seafront homes since 2022.

She told the BBC on Friday that she had sorted out temporary accommodation after having to spend the night in her car.

Connell said she had visited the road she lived on, adding: “I had a look and it is dead… it is odd. Usually there are dogs walking up and down the road.

“I think it makes me feel how it looks – a bit desolate. Everyone on that road is lovely and talks to each other. It is sad.”