This article outlines the steps that have been taken to conserve the coast of Great Britain. It treats the subject historically and emphasizes the ways in which unofficial and official bodies have interacted. Apart from a few very restricted areas, the shoreline is open to all people. The siting of houses, chalets, and huts is strictly controlled. Problems arise from time to time as to the location of nuclear stations, oil storage areas, and similar installations; these issues are settled in full discussions at official inquiries at which all interests—official, business, and conservation–are represented.