Councillors Size up Coastal Erosion Problem at Scratby
PR 128
6 February 2006
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Councillors Jim Shrimplin and Charles Reynolds were on Scratby Beach on Tuesday to see for themselves how the sea is eroding the coastline.
The joined members of the Scratby Coastal Erosion Group and Council officers to ascertain the amount of damage to the northern end of the ‘Rock Berm’ (an extended line of large rocks) placed on the beach in the mid 1990s to act as a sea defence.
The rocks protect the toe of the cliffs along the California to Scratby frontage.
The current problem is that over the last two years the sea has begun to erode the dunes to the north of the Rock Berm.
“We appreciate that we were asked to look at the problem in its early stages,” said Councillor Shrimplin. “But evidence of recent erosion to the dunes at the base of the cliff is apparent.
“Properties at Scratby are in no immediate danger. We have agreed to draw-up a feasibility study which would look at the possibility of placing a further 1.2 kilometre rock barrier.
“If the finding of this initial study shows that a scheme could be viable, then a full detailed study would be considered including public consultation.
“If this goes ahead it would lead to processes, such as an environmental impact study, to bid for Government funding when it becomes available.
“The Council is fully supportive of our communities that find themselves at risk of coastal erosion, and will continue to support efforts to obtain Government funding to remedy the problem.”
For further information contact Councillor Jim Shrimplin on 01493 730821, or Engineering Services Manager Bernard Harris on 01493 846463.A Rock Berm is a designed and constructed configuration of interlocking rocks each weighing 3 to 6 tonnes. The overall open nature of the structure is designed to dissipate/absorb wave energy and the profile of which is to minimise wave reflection. This reduces the adverse effects of the waves that may reach the toe of the cliff and thus reduce the erosion.
Issued by:
Liz Dann
Press Officer
Great Yarmouth Borough Council
01493 846513