Halcrow, Coastal Studies Forward Programme Data Compilation ...

2.6 Shoreline resistance to changeThe shoreline’s resistance to forcing is an important consideration for predictionof future coastal change. Shoreline resistance has been assessed through thedevelopment of a map showing the bedrock surface, assembled using data fromBGS and BNFL records, and a visual assessment of the Quaternary sedimentsexposed in the coastal cliffs (Halcrow 2006b). These data show that the sandstonebedrock cliffs at St Bees Head are very resistant to change. Variation in thesedimentology of the Quaternary sediments also exerts a control on shorelineresistance to change with very coarse glacial outwash boulder deposits, as exposedat Nethertown headland, being more resistant to erosion than the fine-grained tillsexposed at Barn Scar, or the dunes at Carl Crag and Drigg.The bedrock surface map presented in Halcrow (2006b) and reproduced below(Figure 2.4) highlights the morphology of the bedrock surface and the elevation ofbedrock above current sea-level, and can be taken to show the coastline of the lastinterglacial. When combined with a digital elevation model, it is possible togenerate the volume and sedimentology of overlying Quaternary sediments in thehinterland, which gives an insight to the future potential sediment supply to thebeach and nearshore system.Doc No 1 Rev 2: Date: May 201 22