Actively fighting erosion in Kirk Michael would have a severe impact elsewhere, according to director of the Manx Wildlife Trust Duncan Bridges.

Michael MHK Alf Cannan has been extremely critical of the government's handling of the issue, suggesting residents are being left to their fate, with a policy of 'managed retreat'.

He believes installing cliff drains or planting Marram grass should at least be considered.

But Mr Bridges says cliff drains wouldn't be effective for the type of erosion experienced in the area, and while Marram grass helps stabilise sand dunes, it wouldn't be able to resist high wave energy.

Mr Bridges says building physical barriers against the sea is costly both financially and environmentally: