The cliffs that back onto Swanage North Beach are actively unstable and will experience further instability and cliff-top recession in the future, up to 100 residential and commercial premises are located within this area, and many of these also own different parts of the cliff slope and so are responsible for management of instability issues in the cliff area. Unless actions are taken to slow down the process, these premises will increasingly become more exposed to cliff recession that could ultimately cause their loss.
This is an example of a local Dorset beach management scheme
The focus of this scheme is to restore optimum beach sediment levels – this is known as a beach recharge or beach nourishment. Sand or shingle is placed on a beach to create a higher and wider beach. This will absorb more wave energy and protect the land behind.
The advantages of a beach recharge are that the beach retains its natural look and continues to be an attractive asset for both residents and visitors. One of the disadvantages is that over time sand and shingle wash away so the process needs to be repeated over time – the most recent beach recharge in Swanage was in 2005/6.
The Durlston Bay coastline suffers from sporadic cliff instability with large landslides reported for many decades. Rock protection was installed in the late 1980s along a short section of the bay closest to residential premises most at risk of coastal erosion. There are over 85 properties located in the study area.
A major landslip was noted in April 2001 south of the rock revetment. Groundwater pumping was undertaken to help stabilise the cliff, but the area is still at risk. DCF will be re-engaging with all interested landowners along the frontage in this area. This will help provide input from the local community into the development of the proposed strategy and raise awareness of the risk.
Residents and visitors to Swanage can keep up to date with how the project is progressing by signing up to receive the Dorset Coast Forum regular quarterly newsletter dedicated to the projects we are supporting in Swanage, invites to community engagement events and details of consultation surveys.
The cliffs that back onto Swanage North Beach are actively unstable and will experience further instability and cliff-top recession in the near future, up to 100 residential and commercial premises are located within this area, and many of these also own different parts of the cliff slope and so are responsible for management of instability issues in the cliff area. Unless actions are taken to slow down the process, these premises will increasingly become more exposed to cliff recession that could ultimately cause their loss.
