The Coastal Road Being Eroded by Climate Change
A critical stretch of road linking communities in West Somerset, the B3191, known locally as Cleeve Hill, has been closed to cars for over a year due to accelerated coastal erosion. This road, once vital for connecting the camping sites of Blue Anchor to the harbor town of Watchet, now faces an uncertain future.
Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Erosion First closed by Somerset County Council in January 2023, the B3191 has been subject to rapid erosion due to climate change. Dr. Andy King, director of the geological firm Geckoella, highlights the severe impact of rising sea levels and increased rainfall, which have caused the cliff to erode at an unprecedented rate. Over just 10 months, the coastline receded by 17.5 meters, causing significant damage to properties and infrastructure.
Current and Future Access While pedestrian access was restored in April, reopening the road to cars is deemed unlikely. Dr. King and his team have been advising Somerset Council on sustainable solutions. Instead of traditional sea walls, which are expensive and difficult to maintain, they suggest working with nature by building groynes to hold beach sediment and absorb energy from the sea.
Long-term Solutions and Community Support The Somerset Council, in collaboration with the Environment Agency, is committed to finding long-term solutions to protect the coastline. Efforts are being made to provide cyclist access and support local events in Watchet, ensuring that the community remains connected despite the road closure.
Challenges Ahead Moving the road inland has been discussed but is considered a temporary and costly solution. The Environment Agency has allocated £1 million in flood defense grants and £500,000 in local levy funding for coastal works, such as cliff reinforcement. However, these funds are insufficient for relocating the road.
Conclusion The B3191’s closure is a stark reminder of the tangible impacts of climate change on our infrastructure and communities. While the path forward involves significant challenges, the commitment to sustainable and innovative solutions offers hope for preserving the coastline and supporting the affected communities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Why was the B3191 road closed to cars?
- The road was closed due to accelerated coastal erosion, making it unsafe for vehicles.
- What is causing the increased erosion along the coast?
- Climate change is raising sea levels and increasing persistent rainfall, leading to unprecedented rates of coastal erosion.
- Is there a plan to reopen the road to cars?
- Experts believe it is unlikely the road will reopen to cars due to its instability.
- What alternative measures are being considered to protect the coastline?
- Sustainable measures such as building groynes to hold beach sediment and slow erosion are being considered.
- How is the local community being supported during this period?
- Somerset Council is focusing on allowing cyclist access and supporting local events to maintain community engagement and support.
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