Can a Scottish village save Queen Elizabeth’s coastal path from the waves?

The village of Johnshaven on Scotland’s north-east coast faces an urgent battle against coastal erosion. Residents like Charis Duthie recall cycling along paths that now end at the sea, while Angie Dunsire reports flooding risks to homes.

The community aims to restore the Platinum Jubilee Path, part of Scotland’s Great Trails, linking St Cyrus to Cullen, but rising seas and extreme weather complicate progress.

Local group Merchat has formed the North East Scotland Coastal Trust to secure funding for rock armour to protect houses and paths. Nearby Miltonhaven was lost to the sea in the 18th century.