Shifting Shores

Brighton’s geological make up of chalk and clay is gradually being eroded. The shingle beach continually shifts W-E due to longshore drift. The Shifting Shores project addresses Brighton’s current and future challenges of climate change, erosion, extreme coastal weather and sea level rise through a series of bespoke coastal defences which work together to protect the city whilst creating a biodiverse and active landscape for people to relax, socialise and exercise.
Extensive testing using a working wave model of Brighton’s coast informed a breakwater system suitable to reduce wave height and energy, thus protecting the fragile coastline. In addition, rip-rap and a terraced design help to protect the leisure spaces along the beachfront allowing year round activity in the space. An artificial saltmarsh and breakwater reef introduce ecosystem engineers such as kelp, native oysters and marram grass which help to adapt the onshore and offshore environment creating a more stable and sheltered habitat and enabling for juvenile fish and coastal bird populations to thrive. A series of boardwalks have been designed to provide safe passage onto sea sculpted islands, whilst still exposing the user to the elements of the wind and waves. Planting palettes and materiality define each terrace, each selected for their use and tolerance to exposure. Ornamental species are situated closest the urban edge whereas salt tolerant coastal meadow mixes are proposed on the islands best suited to wind and waves.