Introduction

Barrier beaches are mobile features which naturally evolve in response to waves, water levels and currents as well as human activities within their vicinity, adjusting to dynamic equilibrium. Beach management should aim to understand and work in conjunction with natural processes; identify requirements for coastal defences and environmental concerns and establish management strategies to meet these requirements; undertake improvement schemes if economically and environmentally viable; and to initiate and review ongoing monitoring and management schemes (Simm et al., 1996).

The management of barrier beaches requires understanding of the physical processes in operation at the site in question, and in the surrounding coastal cell. Due consideration must be given to environmental issues, and any conservation designations in place which will almost certainly affect management strategies permitted. Many of the England and Wales’ barrier beaches are within designated areas or are themselves designated with regard, for example, their gravel ridges, or shingle vegetated areas.

References

• Simm, J.D., Brampton, A.H., Beech, N.W. and Brooke, J.S. (eds) (1996). Beach management manual, CIRIA Report 153, London.