West Bay case study: The engineers approach
		THE PRELIMINARY STUDIES Introduction A grant aid application for the Preliminary Studies funding was submitted to MAFF in 1996. The application outlined the needs to undertake a series of studies to identify the coastal defence problems at West Bay, and to appraise a range of appropriate options to address these problems. The application resulted in funding being made available to undertake the studies listed below. Study Structure At the outset of the Preliminary Studies the need for a well-defined structure was identified. This resulted in the Pyramid of 8 Key Stages being produced. The first 5 stages concentrated on obtaining an increased understanding of the true problems, through data collection and analysis. The remaining 3 stages concentrated on option generation and appraisal. Study Management The Studies were project managed by West Dorset District Council's Engineering Division, with H.R. Wallingford providing specialist hydraulic support services. During the final stages of the study Posford Duvivier were appointed to provide engineering support services. Throughout the Studies a step-by step approach was adopted, with regular Study Review meetings being held. Project Officers from West Dorset District Council attended these meetings, along with specialist staff from H.R. Wallingford. Other consultants and contractors who had been commissioned to undertake specialist investigations and studies attended the meetings when it was appropriate. The purpose of the Study Review meetings was to: · Receive, review and disseminate information · Appraise the analysis results · Review and amend the studies where necessary · Ensure that funding was effectively used, with studies only being undertaken when there was a justifiable need in terms of engineering and cost Coastal Defence Database During the study period (June 1996 to April 2000) a considerable volume of data was collected in order to identify and understand the problems at West Bay. To ensure this data will be available for future use, a West Bay Coastal Defence Database is currently being established. This database is being designed to be a comprehensive point of reference with ease of retrieval. The studies are: 1. Historical Study 2. Structural Survey of Piers 3. Structural Survey Sea Walls 4. Topographic Survey 5. Bathymetric Survey 6. Environmental Assessment 7. Geomorphological Studies 8. Coastal Processes 9. Site Investigation 10. Mathematical / Physical Modelling 11. Options Generation 12. Conceptual Design 13. Cost Benefit Analysis 14. Statutory Consultation 15. Public Consultation 16. Option Appraisal Report
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