Final phase of Lyme Regis coastal protection going ahead
Good news for Lyme Regis as the coastal protection sheme on the east side of the town is to go ahead.
Following technical approval in early 2011 by the Environment Agency’s Large Project Review Group, full financial approval for the scheme was confirmed on Friday 23 March, with an approved budget of £19.5 million.
The works, to the east of the town, will include the construction of 390 metres of new seawall and extensive slope stabilisation works to the cliffs behind.
Preliminary work at the site has started, however it is expected that the bulk of the work will be carried out during 2013 and 2014. Phase 4 is the last major stage of the coast protection work and will protect the eastern side of the town, where housing and the main road into the town would otherwise be lost due to the effects of coastal erosion.
Environmental considerations have been a key factor throughout the development of the project, with the area designated as a World Heritage Site, Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation. Close liaison with Natural England and Dorset County Council has resulted in them approving the works, with impacts to the designated sites minimised as far as possible.
Published on 06/04/2012.
