Rupert is organising an open letter to Prime Minister Keir Starmer in support of Hemsby. If you would like to sign the letter, please fill out the below form with your details.
Please Note: Your name will be published on the letter publicly.
The Letter
Dear Prime Minister,
We are writing to you regarding the ongoing and worsening situation in Hemsby, where coastal erosion continues to devastate homes, businesses, and livelihoods. For years, successive Governments have promised action, held consultations, and published reports – yet the shoreline continues to disappear and residents continue to live in fear every time a storm rolls in. It is simply unacceptable.
Before the election, Labour promised to act. Your party pledged that a Labour Government would step in where others have failed. Yet, to date, there has been no visible progress towards the urgent works that are now clearly necessary to save what remains of Hemsby.
This is not simply a local issue – it is an economic and moral one. The businesses and tourism industry in Hemsby generate substantial tax revenue for the Exchequer every single year. Protecting them from further erosion would not only safeguard homes and livelihoods but would pay for itself many times over through the continued economic contribution of the area.
The people of Hemsby deserve clarity and a plan.
We are demanding a clear timeline for delivery of strengthened sea defences in Hemsby and a firm commitment to review central funding mechanisms to ensure that communities such as Hemsby, where local economies are directly at risk, are not left behind.
In addition, if the worst does happen, we are requesting that residents forced to move are given the robust financial support they need and deserve.
I urge you to treat this matter with the seriousness it deserves and to instruct the relevant minister to meet with me and local representatives on the ground in Hemsby to agree a practical and funded plan of action.