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Erosion and Management of the Open Coast |
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The Dorset and East Devon coast owes its unique character to the underlying geology and the erosional processes acting upon it. From the sea stacks at Ladram Bay, to the terraced landslides of East Devon and West Dorset and the towering cliffs of Purbeck, erosion is the process that maintains the nature of the coastline. |
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In terms of the scientific interest of the Dorset and East Devon coast, erosion is essential in that it maintains fresh geological exposures, uncovers fossils, and continues to demonstrate a range of active geomorphological processes. Furthermore, erosion is responsible for the very character of the coast and creates many important wildlife habitats. In particular, the landslides are constantly generating freshly broken ground, forming ideal habitats for colonising plants and animals. Black Ven, between Charmouth and Lyme Regis is just one example of a landslide with exceptional wildlife interest. The great Undercliff between Lyme Regis and Seaton, in East Devon is the largest natural ash woodland in England and is a National Nature Reserve. However, erosion
on this coastline produces problems relating to man's settlement and
use of the coast and this conflict of interest will only grow with time.  The sea is constantly eroding the cliffs, maintaining the geological sections and natural beauty of the coast but also threatening property and infrastructure such as the Coast Path |
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The coast looks
the same but erosion is constantly at work