Briefing: Dunwich coastal protection demonstration project

The coastline at Dunwich in Suffolk, UK, has receded by an average of 1 m per year during the last 2000 years. Following a cost–benefit analysis, the Suffolk shoreline management plan dictates that any coastal defences must only slow the rate of erosion by reducing the effect of major storm events. Coastal protection proposals now on trial will enhance sediment accretion through wave and wind action while also reducing the cliff toe erosion during major storm events.