URL: https://modgov.north-norfolk.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=637

Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: Decision RESOLVED:   To provide a total budget of up to £120,000 from the ‘reactive coastal works’ budget (approved by Cabinet in March 2025) and the CTAP budget, to undertake the actions recommended in this report to address the knotweed issues over the period between autumn 2025 and autumn 2027.   The actions will include: Complete a programme of four containment foliar sprays by lance/stem injection between 2025 and 2027, for a 3-metre strip at both the base and the top of the coastal slope Complete works for clearance of promenade and licenced disposal of slump material containing Japanese Knotweed Complete works to stabilise the base of the coastal slope, landwards of the top of the sea wall in the immediate proximity of promenade clearance works, to inhibit further encroachment of slump material potentially containing Japanese Knotweed Further investigate the potential for annual foliar spraying, utilising appropriate methods, across the entire area containing the Japanese Knotweed infestation, then implement treatment by the most appropriate means (potentially between 2025 and 2027) Implement and promote stakeholder engagement and community awareness, through stakeholder coordination, raising public awareness and education of the knotweed issue Investigate approaches to maintaining vegetative cover during treatment of Japanese Knotweed and re-establishing vegetation post-treatment of Japanese Knotweed, in order to reduce the potential impact of rainfall-induced surface water run-off upon cliff instability Implement long-term monitoring of Japanese Knotweed infestation, covering 2025 to 2027 treatment period and subsequent treatment/post treatment periods, as required. Long-term monitoring to track changes in infestation size and vegetation cover and review and refine initial treatment approaches, potentially including further foliar spraying and/or stem injection.   Reasons for the decision:   To ensure appropriate action is taken in a timely manner to meet the Council’s legal responsibilities and allow other works to proceed.  

Date of Decision: September 8, 2025