The UK's Environment Agency launched a new coastal defence project at Pevensey Bay, Sussex, on June 27. The project involves moving thousands of tonnes of shingle to reduce flood risk.
This short-term work is the first phase of a broader coastal management strategy. This phase will manage the 8.5-kilometre Pevensey Bay frontage for the next two years, protecting over 3,000 properties.
A medium-term phase from 2027 to 2037 will combine the Pevensey and Eastbourne frontages and include upgrades to groynes. The overall scheme aims to protect up to 18,000 properties over the next century, according to the agency.
Contractor VolkerStevin will lead the operational beach activities. The project marks the return of operational responsibility to the Environment Agency after 25 years of management under a public-private partnership arrangement.
Richard Fuller, project lead at the Environment Agency, stated that managing the shingle defences is vital for keeping homes and businesses safe. The agency said the beach will remain open to the public throughout the works, with added safety guidance around working machinery.