ABPmer was commissioned by Jacobs on behalf of Low Level Waste Repository Limited (LLW Repository Ltd.) to inspect the coastline surrounding the Low Level Waste Repository (LLWR) site between St Bees and the Ravenglass Estuary. This is an annual requirement following the submission of an Environmental Safety Case (ESC) to the Environment Agency in 2011.

The purpose of the inspection is to provide LLW Repository Ltd. with the information required to confirm the existing understanding of the evolution of the coast and the underlying process mechanisms, thereby helping to manage risk.

The monitoring consists of an annual field survey comprising qualitative comparison between photographs taken at the same locations to identify ongoing changes in beach morphology, cliff/dune face position and anthropogenic management of the shoreline.

We also review local metocean conditions. This includes analysing a year-long observational record collected from the weather station at the LLWR site, as well as river discharge of surrounding catchment systems for the corresponding period. We use ABPmer’s SEASTATES database for wave climate and water levels.

As well as what is happening at the local level, we also consider other relevant research and monitoring programmes that may have a bearing on the future management of the coast. This includes quantitative coastal monitoring data, national and international climate change research and outputs from other projects related to energy developments on the coast as well as the nuclear industry.

ABPmer offers the full complement of survey capability, providing bespoke services to developers and operators including charting, data processing and laboratory analysis. As an integrated consultancy and survey company, we offer a unique service to those operating in the marine environment.