The demolition of a clifftop home at risk of being lost to the sea has begun after 'critical safety levels' were reached. The property, in Thorpeness, Suffolk, was home to Jean Flick, 88, who had lived there for 25 years. She is now understood to be staying with family.
East Suffolk Council confirmed that 'significant erosion' had occurred at the northern end of Thorpeness, leading to the demolition, which is expected to take between seven and ten days. The council is forward funding the costs and will seek to reclaim some via an Environment Agency grant.
Ms Flick, a widow from a farming family, had earlier expressed her distress, saying her 'heart will just break' if the house had to be demolished. She had hoped that defences could be built at the cliff foot to slow erosion. The house, built in 1928, had five bedrooms and was bought with her second husband for a fresh start.
Councillor Mark Packard, cabinet member for planning and coastal management, said: 'Losing a home to coastal erosion is extremely distressing. East Suffolk Council has worked closely with the owner to ensure they were fully aware and could arrange demolition in a safe and dignified manner.'
