2.14 - Lyme Regis

Question 1

What is the physical geography of Lyme Regis that affects coastal erosion?

Answer 1

• Average rainfall exceeds 850mm = added sub-aerial stress
• Town lies upon unstable soft clays + sands
• Cliffs have seaward dip = perfect landslip surface
• Projected SLR of 55cm by 2100
• Large Atlantic fetch of waves = increased marine erosion at base of cliffs

Question 2

What is the human geography at Lyme Regis?

Answer 2

• Town population of 5000 who mostly live within 1km of coastline
• Population increases to 15000 in summer = shows how dependent town’s economy is on tourism
• Urbanisation = impermeable surfaces = increased runoff

Question 3

What is the coastal engineering + management at Lyme Regis?

Answer 3

• New sand and shingle beaches have been replenished with material from France
• The Cobb has been extended with igneous rock armour from Norway
• Slope engineering - pins inserted to drain water + prevent landslides

Question 4

Costs of Lyme Regis coastal management?

Answer 4

• Preliminary investigation - £1.5 million
• Cost of engineering/management - £30 million
• Beachfront had to close for 2 years

Question 5

Benefits of Lyme Regis coastal engineering/management?

Answer 5

• 2000 more people per year than previously
• Improved ramp access