Scotland's 10 Most Endangered Areas

By 2050,
all of these areas will be
significantly affected by
global climate change

1. St Combs To Rattray Head, Northeast Coast
2. Lunan Bay, Angus
3. South Coll, Isle of Coll
4. Loch Na Keal, Isle of Mull
5. Machrihanish, Campbeltown
6. Machair Leathan, North Uist
7. Mersehead Sands, Dumfries and Galloway
8. Golspie, Highlands
9. Melvich Bay, Highlands
10. Lossiemouth East, Moray

St Combs To Rattray Head, Northeast Coast

This popular Coastal walk on the Northeast Coast of Scotland is already affected by significant erosion and is expected to continue to be impacted by flooding due to rising sea levels over the next 50 years.

Lunan Bay

Off-the-beaten track coastal haven, Lunan Bay, is located just south of Montrose. University of Glasgow researchers identified the area is expected to experience significant Coastal erosion across the entire stretch of the bay, alongside flooding on the frontal coast.

South Coll, Isle of Coll

Scotland’s stunning Inner Hebridean Island, The Isle of Coll is expected to experience significant Coastal erosion across most areas which scientists say will meet in the North and South.

Loch Na Keal, Isle of Mull

The Isle of Mull is the gateway Isle to the Scottish Hebrides, the beautiful area of Loch Na Keal is at risk of flooding in the low-lying areas affecting roads and other low lying parts significantly affecting daily life for locals and tourists.

Machrihanish, Campbeltown

Machrihanish, is located just south of Scotland’s best surfing hotspot Westport beach. By 2050, much of Machrihanish may be subjected to coastal erosion and flooding due to rising sea levels.

Machair Leathan, North Uist

North Uist makes up the cluster of Islands known as the Outer Hebrides and is under severe threat. As well as flooding, coastal erosion of up to 80m by 2050 and 250m by 2100 is expected to effect the whole Peninsula.

Mersehead Sands, Dumfries and Galloway

Known for its beautiful white sand beaches, Mersehead is expected to experience significant erosion. Scientists have identified the impact will be seen mostly on the west of Southerness Golf Course, across the eastern edge of Southwick Water outlet and into the Solway Firth.

Golspie, Highlands

In the North Sea Coast of Scotland is the village of Golspie. Extensive flooding is expected by 2050, especially in the North across Golspie Links and in the South along Loch Fleet mouth. .

Melvich Bay, Highlands

Melvich Bay, located along the Northern section of the famous NC500 route is at risk of extensive coastal erosion and flooding over the next 50 years particularly across the north and west sides.

Lossiemouth East, Moray

‘Lossie’ as it is often called, is most well-known for its golden sand beaches which stretch for miles. University of Glasgow researchers have identified significant risk of erosion east of Lossiemouth, especially by Boar’s Head Rock.