Steering Group
In view of the challenges presented by this study, particularly in relation to the built environment, a Steering Group of key stakeholder representatives has been established, with the Environment Agency acting as the first point of contact for the Steering Group. The aim of the Steering Group was to promote understanding between the major stakeholders of other parties' objectives and provide a forum to discuss the role future flood management and coast protection schemes will play in the wider environment. They also disseminate information to other members within their organisation and the public.

The Steering Group comprises:

• The Environment Agency (regional, local and environmental representatives)
• English Nature
• Crouch Harbour Authority
• Landowner representative
• Defence Estates
• Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
• Halcrow Group Ltd

The members of the Steering Group have been kept abreast of significant developments in the Study and any changes to the Study Programme. Not only are the members of the Steering Group representatives of major stakeholders in their own right, but they have also played an important role as a conduit for two-way communication with other interested parties.

Steering Group meetings were scheduled to take place throughout the strategy study phase to discuss issues at the following stages:

• Initial Briefing on Study Aims
• Draft Objectives and Contemporary Process Maps
• Draft SEA and Draft Process Appraisal
• Preliminary Contemporary Process Analysis, Economic Analysis and Option Development.
• Contemporary Processes Report
• Strategy Option
• Draft Strategy
• Strategy-consultation
• Final Strategy