Coasts Unit - The Lyme Regis Coastal Management Scheme

Question 1

What is the population of Lyme Regis?

Answer 1

Approximately 4,400 people.

Question 2

Where is Lyme Regis located?

Answer 2

Heritage Jurassic Coast, Dorset, Southern England.

Question 3

What weather and waves is Lyme Regis exposed to?

Answer 3

SW waves of Atlantic, stormy conditions of English Channel.

Question 4

What is the problem with the cliffs?

Answer 4

Very unstable cliffs; clays and sands that are prone to landslides.

Question 5

Who was in charge of the scheme, and where did most money come from?

Answer 5

West Dorset District Council (WDDC), most money came from Department for the Environment and Rural Affairs (DEFRA)

Question 6

When did it occur?

Answer 6

Phase 1: 1995
Phase 2: 2003-2005

Question 7

Aim of the scheme:

Answer 7

Long-term protection for homes and businesses.
Protect coast and natural environment to attract tourists.

Question 8

Phase 1 (1995):

Answer 8

Completed in 1995, involved a new sea wall to reflect wave energy.

Question 9

Phase 1 pros and cons:

Answer 9

Gave peace of mind, but sea wall was ugly, expensive, and restricted beach access.

Question 10

Phase 2 (2003-2004):

Answer 10

Pinning to stabilise cliffs; metal rods drilled into cliffs, and improved drainage to prevent landslides due to saturation.
Cost: £1.4 million

Question 11

Phase 2 (2005):

Answer 11

Sea wall extended, beach nourishment used, rock armour used to retain beach and absorb energy, further pinning and drainage systems.
Cost: £22 million

Question 12

Pros of Scheme:

Answer 12

• Peace of mind for businesses and residents.
• Beach nourishment attracts tourists, improving economy.
• Rock armour builds up beach, better tourism, better protection.

Question 13

Cons of Scheme:

Answer 13

• Cost almost £25 million, very expensive.
• Sea wall is eyesore and restricts beach access.
• Due to rising sea levels, more protection may be needed - is this sustainable and beneficial in the long-term?