Proposals to ease the total ban on building in locations threatened by coastal erosion could help local business insurance holders, it has been claimed.
The Department for Communities and Local Government revealed that it will allow regional authorities to approve temporary, cost-effective recreation projects such as cafes, car parks and beach huts from business insurance customers in coastal areas.
Although all inappropriate residential developments will remain prohibited, the department explained that business insurance holders who demonstrate their projects will have wider economic benefits will be considered for the first time in areas at risk of coastal erosion.
David Frost, director general of the British Chambers of Commerce, welcomed the move, saying it is a "creative idea" which will have a beneficial impact on many coastal economies.
"Easing the blanket ban on development in places threatened by erosion offers entrepreneurs and businesses a real opportunity to create wealth and employment," he explained.
Mr Frost added that developments in these areas may present business insurance issues, but these should not be significant as rigorous safety checks will have to be performed on any developments.
