SECG Coastline: Unit5 - Herne Bay (East)

Process Unit 5 - Herne Bay (East)

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Principal Characteristics: Freely eroding cliffs between Bishopstone and Reculver form part of a nature conservation area continuing along this frontage, which also encompasses undeveloped land on top of the cliffs. Reculver headland accommodates archaeological features and tourist facilities. Continuing eastwards, agricultural land dominates the coastline for several kilometres until Plumpudding Island

Summary of Main Issues Within Unit

Coastal
* sediment transport is predominantly westward
* cliff erosion at Bishopstone affords some beach material
* main supply from offshore source at Plumpudding Island
* naturally retreating coastline threatens land through erosion and increased flood risk

Environmental
* maintain existing nature conservation designations
* maintain the overall quantity & quality of wildlife habitats
* ensure that defence works do not disturb rare species
* seek opportunities for the creation of coastal habitats
* maintain geological interests along Bishopstone cliffs

Land Use
* maintain flood protection to Wantsum Channel
* protect the Reculver headland for navigational purposes
* discourage the presence of static caravans at Reculver
* protect the oyster hatchery at Reculver
* protect the landscape quality of the Wantsum Walk area
* maintain pedestrian/cycle access along Wansum Walk

Existing Defences
* seawalls, groynes and beach recharge schemes protect Reculver headland; existing Wantsum Walk defences currently being replaced

Selection of Defence Strategies

A strategy of 'do nothing' along the cliffs between Bishopstone and Reculver would benefit the unit by maintaining conservation and coastal process interests along this frontage. By 'holding the existing line' from west of the Reculver headland along the Wantsum Walk coastline, many of the coastal interests in this area could also be satisfied. Most importantly, the strategy must provide protection to the extensive Wantsum Channel flood Zone against inundation. Construction of defences along the previous defence line would have a minimal impact upon nature conservation and landscape interests in the area. A strategy to 'hold the existing line' would also satisfy many of the local planning and land use issues. This would ensure continued protection of the Reculver headland, and thus the retention of navigation features, and also maintain access to Thanet along the Wantsum Walk. In addition, the Oyster hatchery would continue to be protected.

Recommended Coastal Defence Strategies & Implementation

Management Unit 5D - Bishopstone to Reculver
Responsibility - Canterbury City Council
Do Nothing: No defence works to be undertaken

Management Unit 5E - Reculver to Plumpudding island
Responsibility -Canterbury City Council & Environment Agency
Hold the existing defence line: Improve existing defences; continued maintenance in future