Coastal Processes and Morphology

Overview

There is a need for ever more rigorous evaluations of coastal processes and behaviour in order to inform and facilitate sustainable management decisions. In this regard, coastal process studies form the basic framework within which the functions of the coast are to be managed. ABPmer offers a dedicated team of physical processes specialists (scientists, geomorphologists and engineers) providing expertise in assessment of coastal and estuarine processes and morphology to input into a range of studies.

Services

The Processes team, working in conjunction with ABPmer’s other work teams, provides services with specific relevance to: Shoreline Management *Habitat Management / Creation *Flood and Coastal Defence *Environment Impact Assessment *Coastal / Estuarine Process Studies *Offshore Development *Beach Processes and Behaviour *Research and Development

The team typically utilises and interprets data from:
Numerical modelling results *Oceanographic field data *Historical records of morphological change *Geophysical field data *Broad scale conceptual modelling and Sedimentary evidence.

This data is drawn together and interpreted based on a thorough knowledge of oceanographic and sedimentary processes and established geomorphological concepts, combined with a knowledge and appreciation of coastal management and coastal engineering. The approach advocated and promoted by the Processes Team provides flexibility and can be adapted to provide the information required by clients involved in each of the potential functions of a coastline or estuary. The skills of the team can be applied in an advisory role, a steering role, as technical reviewers or all aspects of technical studies. Potential clients groups include: Local Authorities *Coastal Groups and Forums *Nature Conservation Groups *Environment Agencies *Government Departments *Research Organisations *Developers.

Experience

ABPmer have been at the forefront of this change in emphasis, both in terms of influencing national policy and at a practical, more applied, level. In terms of shoreline management, ABPmer were involved in developing the approach within Defra's FutureCoast project and had a role in the development of the SMP2 Procedural Guidance laying down the approach for shoreline management in England and Wales. In terms of coastal processes we have also played a role in the two other significant recent and ongoing developments in the coastal sector: Habitat management and creation; Offshore wind farms. We have been the leading consultants to date in the coastal processes aspects of UK offshore wind farms. We also have considerable experience in both managed re-alignment schemes and Coastal Habitat Management Plans, both of which are underpinned by a sound and thorough understanding of processes and morphology.