Kelp Breakwaters

Brighton coastline faces many issues that in some areas jeopardise the continuity of existing uses and programs of the site. These threats include erosion, flooding and storm damage. The project aims to rejuvenate and re-establish the lost kelp forests of West Sussex with the use of temporary breakwaters that protect the shoreline and establishment of the kelp.
Over time the temporary breakwaters will degrade and the kelp forests, with the ability to reduce wave impact by up to 70%, will become the breakwater. The shoreline will be greatly impacted by this, with a new range of programs due to calmer water and shingle accretion. Kelp debris that is washed ashore will provide nutrients that assist in the growth of shingle vegetation, a rare coastal habitat.
Shingle vegetation will be encouraged to develop in areas most likely to receive kelp deposits over the years of beach growth. This will be done by strategically placed boardwalks and in some areas, the complete removal of program. A new shared space will replace the main road with layers of planting providing some sun and wind protection for the wide range of programs that can take place along the new promenade. Maintaining and prioritising pedestrian and ecological connectivity is key.