Gran’s Desperate Battle Against Coastal Erosion Threatens New Home Again, UK

A gran in Norfolk, known as ‘Granny Canute’, is facing the prospect of her new home being swallowed up by coastal erosion, just a decade after her previous bungalow fell into the sea. Bryony Nierop-Reading, 78, was forced to leave her three-bedroom property in 2013 when a portion of it collapsed onto the beach below. After staying in a caravan, she moved to The Old Coastguard, a semi-detached home in Happisburgh, in 2017. However, now her new residence is under threat from encroaching cliffs, with just 80 feet separating her from the edge. Recent aerial photographs demonstrate the alarming pace of erosion near Bryony’s home, leaving her feeling absolutely terrified. She voiced her anger at the government’s lack of action in protecting the coastline. Alongside her current home, Bryony also owns half a field near Happisburgh Community Car Park, which is also at risk. Expressing concern for her grandchildren’s inheritance, she emphasized the need to take a stand and safeguard the coastline. Bryony earned the nickname ‘Granny Canute’ due to her previous attempts to protect her original house from erosion. Despite the risks involved, she chose to remain on the coast to continue her activism for coastal preservation and safeguard historical structures in the village. She highlighted the importance of protecting landmarks like the lighthouse, church, and pub from being lost forever. The urgency of the situation is evident to Bryony, who wants to preserve these irreplaceable treasures for future generations.