An eroding bluff in Langley that may be partially located on city-owned land is giving a whole new meaning to “Village by the Sea.”

Langley Mayor Scott Chaplin explained that the bluff, which has experienced some movement in the past year, is located near First Street and overlooks Seawall Park. A big clump of dirt has slid off it and down to the park.

The city is currently in the process of assessing the urgency of the situation. Chaplin said a geotechnical company may be able to give a better assessment of the area.

“I don’t think it’s imminent today or tomorrow, but I think a heavy spring next year could take a lot of it out,” he said. “I think we’re fine for the summer.”

To complicate matters, the location of the eroding bluff may share a border with a private property owner.

According to Chaplin, other areas of downtown Langley have been experiencing bluff erosion for a while. Between the Inn at Langley and Saratoga Creek Lane, there have been some slides in the last few years.

He said there has also been some concern about a bluff above the marina near Cascade Avenue, and deterioration of the seawall, which includes cracks that seem to go all the way through the cement wall. A severe windstorm last fall left gaping holes in places where sediment caved in, which have since been filled.