Project Overview

Chesil Cove is a curved bank forming the end of Chesil Beach. The Chesil Cove seawall was built in 1965 as a means to protect the toe of the steep bank known as West Weares. It was designed to deflect waves and prevent major slumping of the land above which previously had experienced ground slippage. Under the direction of the Shoreline Management Plan, Chesil Cove comes under the "hold the line" approach meaning defences should be maintained or replaced where they already exist.

The beach at Chesil Cove is popular with families who favour the shallow waters, divers who explore the many shipwrecks in the area and also with walkers who make use of the promenade above the wall. There are also many beach huts up above, dotted on the slope.

There is consistent heavy wave attack along this area of coast but the wall also sustains damage from the following:

• Coastal erosion
• Beach loss
• Foreshore lowering
• Structure undermining

Some repairs were undertaken on the wall in 2011 but these have now been undermined and the sea is causing rotational movement at the southern end, threatening it further.

If no action was taken at the site and the ground started to slump again, the main A354 road would be at risk as well as coastal paths, homes, chalets and utilities. Various studies have taken place to identify that urgent action is needed.

Many answers to key questions regarding this project can be found in our FAQ's.

Options for repair or replacing the seawall have been appraised by the Dorset Council FCERM team who are working with consultants Jacobs on the project. 

A timeline for these works is not yet set. This design will be put forward as part of the outline business case application to the Environment Agency. The outline business case will be put forward over the coming months and if approved, funding will be sought.