PARTS of the Isle of Wight have been projected to be below the flood level in 2050.

Climate Central has released improved elevation data and updated maps which indicate far greater global threats from sea level rise and coastal flooding than previously thought, and greater benefits from reducing their causes.

The Island is shown as having areas at risk, including much of the Eastern Yar area, Hampstead and Yarmouth.

An Isle of Wight Council spokesperson said: "Predicting and mitigating the risks flooding of land from the sea is a national issue which is the responsibility of the Environment Agency.

"The Isle of Wight Council works closely with the Environment Agency to help with its work, for example recently at Simeon Street Recreation Ground in Ryde."

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said it was already investing £2.6 billion of government funding, up to 2021, as part of a six-year programme to better protect 300,000 homes from flooding, coastal erosion and sea level rise.

They said: "We build climate change projections into the design of each of our flood and coastal defence projects to make sure they are fit for the future.

"Some of these projects have a lifespan of up to 100 years or more so it is vitally important they are resilient in tomorrow’s climate.

"In May this year, Environment Agency chair, Emma Howard Boyd, launched a draft long-term flood and coastal risk management strategy for England.

"The draft strategy, which has recently been out for public consultation, sets out a plan for tackling, preparing for and adapting to the additional risks climate change will bring.

"The recommendations include ensuring all infrastructure is resilient to flooding and coastal change by 2050, committing on average £1 billion per year to flood and coastal defences and natural flood management over the next 50 years, and building climate resilience into every new home and property development.

"The Environment Agency manages and maintains around 1,000km of coastal defences, 7,000km of flood defences on main rivers and approximately 17,000 structures, helping to keep homes and businesses across the country safe from flooding."

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