Coastwise has published a report to assist with planning and making decisions about Graveyards at risk of erosion

Date published: 8th August 2025

Around the English coast, there are a number of graveyards that are at risk of loss from coastal erosion. In North Norfolk, there are three known graveyards at coastal erosion risk in Happisburgh, Trimingham and Mundesley. There are many more examples around the country’s coastline and around the world.

As part of our work to better understand and prepare for erosion, Coastwise has been working with the Diocese of Norwich to commission a study to investigate the policies, legislation and practical guidance around graveyards at risk of erosion.

Coastwise Café engagement events provide a forum for community members to voice local concerns, and it was through these drop-ins that at-risk graveyards were raised, leading to the study being commissioned. 

Read the full study here

Graveyards hold emotional, cultural, and religious significance and are often deeply embedded in local communities. Despite this, there are currently no plans or policies in place around how to plan and prepare where graveyards are at risk of loss from coastal erosion, in the long-term future. Community involvement in their future is key. 

The report sets out potential options where previously there were none, equipping stakeholders with a framework with which to make decisions around the future of their graveyard, all with stakeholder engagement being key. 

The options identified in the report are: 

• Do minimum 

• Defend 

• Cease use and close 

• Relocate 

• Long-term management 

There is no universal approach, each response will be specific to the needs of that location and may be a combination of options.

The report lays out the options available, the legislation that needs to be considered for each option, who should be involved in decision-making, timescales, outline costs, and the process (or pathways) that each option might take. By exploring viable transition options, engaging stakeholders, and recognising the cultural and emotional sensitivities involved, the report provides a foundation for informed decision-making and responsible long-term planning. 

There is a need for proactive, respectful, and collaboration as any place specific approach develops. To date, no approach has been agreed or prepared for any graveyard in North Norfolk. 

Coastwise is working with specialists to run workshops and events in some coastal communities to co-create coastal erosion transition plans. These plans will utilise the information in the published report to inform discussions on graveyards at risk, where it is desired by communities to do so, and will help provide a basis for discussions to develop. 

Coastwise is funded by Defra as part of the £200 million Flood and Coastal Innovation Programmes which is managed by the Environment Agency. The programmes will drive innovation in flood and coastal resilience and adaptation to a changing climate.

Graveyard Report Infographic

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