Authors :
Michael L. Hackett; Ashmini Prasad
Volume/Issue :
Volume 8 - 2023, Issue 12 - December
Google Scholar :
http://tinyurl.com/4pbbkvez
Scribd :
http://tinyurl.com/2sza9s8h
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10461758
Abstract :
This report assesses the coastal sediment
dynamics and the impact of coastal sea defences in the
Highcliffe, Hengistbury Head, and Christchurch Harbour
regions of Christchurch, Dorset, on the southern coast of
England. The study combines field observations, expert
insights, satellite imagery, and literature to show the
intricate interplay between natural sediment processes and
anthropogenic interventions.
The study area is characterised by cliffs, sandy
beaches, and clay-silt deposits, all influenced by wave
action, littoral transport, and geological factors. Two
contrasting coastal management approaches are
considered. One approach uses rock armour groynes to
combat erosion, inadvertently disrupting sediment flow
eastward. This illustrates the effectiveness of groynes in
beach preservation but highlights their impact
downstream. Another approach allows natural erosion,
leading to cliff retreat and property relocation. It also
reveals the complexities of sediment transport and the
depth of closure concept.
This study underscores the intricate nature of coastal
dynamics and defence strategies. Human intervention can
yield unforeseen consequences, necessitating thorough
research and novel solutions to safeguard coastal regions.
Continued efforts are essential to find a balance between
coastal protection and preserving the dynamic equilibrium
of coastal systems to prevent the sea from claiming land.
Keywords :
Accretion, Coastal Sediment Dynamics, Erosion, Depth of Closure, Groyne, Littoral Drift, Longshore Drift, Sediment Nourishment, Sediment Starvation, Terminal Groyne Syndrome.
This report assesses the coastal sediment
dynamics and the impact of coastal sea defences in the
Highcliffe, Hengistbury Head, and Christchurch Harbour
regions of Christchurch, Dorset, on the southern coast of
England. The study combines field observations, expert
insights, satellite imagery, and literature to show the
intricate interplay between natural sediment processes and
anthropogenic interventions.
The study area is characterised by cliffs, sandy
beaches, and clay-silt deposits, all influenced by wave
action, littoral transport, and geological factors. Two
contrasting coastal management approaches are
considered. One approach uses rock armour groynes to
combat erosion, inadvertently disrupting sediment flow
eastward. This illustrates the effectiveness of groynes in
beach preservation but highlights their impact
downstream. Another approach allows natural erosion,
leading to cliff retreat and property relocation. It also
reveals the complexities of sediment transport and the
depth of closure concept.
This study underscores the intricate nature of coastal
dynamics and defence strategies. Human intervention can
yield unforeseen consequences, necessitating thorough
research and novel solutions to safeguard coastal regions.
Continued efforts are essential to find a balance between
coastal protection and preserving the dynamic equilibrium
of coastal systems to prevent the sea from claiming land.
Keywords :
Accretion, Coastal Sediment Dynamics, Erosion, Depth of Closure, Groyne, Littoral Drift, Longshore Drift, Sediment Nourishment, Sediment Starvation, Terminal Groyne Syndrome.
