1. Study Context

Sediment movements in the southern North Sea influence the eastern English coastline through supplying or removing beach material. It is important to understand these movements thoroughly so as to improve the data on which Shoreline Management Plans (SMPs) and the assessment of dredging licence applications are based. A fuller understanding of sediment movements will facilitate a greater awareness of issues affecting management of beaches and coastal defences, the coastline and sediment resources offshore.

The Southern North Sea Sediment Transport Study Phase 2 was designed to provide the broad appreciation and detailed understanding of sediment transport along the eastern coastline of England between Flamborough Head in Yorkshire and North Foreland in Kent, on the south side of the Thames Estuary (Figure 1). The study was undertaken between 2000 and 2002 by a consortium comprising of HR Wallingford, CEFAS Lowestoft Laboratory and UEA Norwich, Posford Haskoning and independent consultant Dr Brian D'Olier.

The study was commissioned by a group of nine local authorities, together with the Environment Agency and English Nature and the dredging industry. It built on the earlier Phase 1 study completed in 1996 (ABP Research & Consultancy, 1996a, 1996b and 2000). The present study was part funded by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA). The client project manager was Julian Walker of Waveney District Council on behalf of Great Yarmouth Borough Council, the client group leader. The consultant team was led by Richard Whitehouse of HR Wallingford.

2. Summary of outputs

The outcomes of the study have been presented in the Sediment Transport Report (HR Wallingford, 2002) which is supported by 15 Appendices containing detailed information on various facets of the study. A database, field data and various map data is available for use within a Geographical Information System.

It is expected that the report will be of use to engineers and scientists with roles in managing, regulating or working within the coastal and seabed areas encompassed by the study area. At a generic level it will be relevant to those undertaking research into coastal and seabed processes.

3. Further information

For further information about the study contact either Richard Whitehouse at HR Wallingford or Julian Walker at Waveney District Council. Click here for contact details.