Littlehampton mobile home insurance row '“ Environment Agency steps in

ENVIRONMENT Agency officials are to hold talks with the owners of a park homes site on the outskirts of Littlehampton, after it was claimed two insurance companies were cancelling policies for properties there.
By The Newsroom
Published 22nd Sep 2009, 10:55 BST
Updated 8th Jun 2018, 00:57 BST

Climping Park's owners Rickwood Estates Ltd, said publicity surrounding the agency's draft proposals to abandon sea defences had led to the two insurance companies withdrawing cover for many homes on the site.

Read more about the Gazette's story about insurance policy cancellations here.

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One of the companies, underwriters Towergate Group, has since denied cancelling policies.

However, it admitted that in January it upgraded the flood risk rating for all properties in the BN17 Littlehampton postcode area to the highest level, resulting in increased charges for policyholders.

Draft option

John O'Flynn, Environment Agency (EA) flood and coastal risk manager for Solent and South Downs, said: "We are very concerned to hear from the owners of Climping Park that residents have had insurance cover removed based on draft options.

"We know this must be a worrying situation for them.

"We have already worked with other homeowners in the area to successfully reinstate insurance cover following a similar issue.

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"Now that we are aware of the problems facing those living at Climping Park, we will be in contact with the owner of the park to discuss in more detail."

Flood threat

Commenting on the Climping Park situation, an EA spokeswoman said: "People and their properties along this stretch of coastline are already faced with the very real threat of flood and erosion.

"With the climate changing, sea levels rising and more frequent and intense storms, the current flood defences are under increasing threat.

"Our draft strategy with recommendations on how this risk could be managed over the next 100 years is out for public consultation until September 30."

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