Coast Protection

The Coast Protection Act 1949 gave local burghs and counties with maritime coasts powers to protect land and prevent coastal erosion in their area.[1] There was also provision for the creation of coast protection boards made up of representatives from burghs and counties with maritime coasts. Local authorities had powers to carry out coastal protection works, levy charges under works schemes and require landowners to carry out maintenance and repair of structures.  The works were subject to inquiries where river boards and harbour authorities had particular rights. The local authority responsibilities were transferred to regional and islands councils in 1975.[2] They were subsequently transferred to unitary councils in 1996.[3]

Previously, under harbour legislation, the Board of Trade had the authority to restrict excavation of shingle on or under the seashore.[4] In 1939 these powers of the Board of Trade were extended to include all materials, with the aim of preventing coastal erosion.[5]

Compiler: Elspeth Reid (2021)

 

Bibliography

Ferguson, Keith, An introduction to local government in Scotland (The Planning Exchange, 1984)

[1] Coast Protection Act 1949 (12 & 13 Geo. VI c.74).

[2] Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 (c.65) s.138.

[3] Local Government etc (Scotland) Act 1994 (c.39).

[4] Harbours Act 1814 ((54 Geo. III c. 159); Harbours Transfer Act 1862 (25 & 26 Vict. c. 69).

[5] Coast Protection Act 1939 (2 & 3 Geo. VI c.39).