In this deck, we'll explore how we protect our coastlines from erosion, using the town of Lyme Regis as a detailed case study. You will learn the difference between hard and soft engineering, describe various types of coastal defences, and evaluate the successes and failures of the multi-million pound scheme at Lyme Regis.

Coastal management strategies are broadly divided into two types: hard engineering and soft engineering. Hard engineering involves building artificial structures to control natural processes. These are often expensive, have a big impact on the landscape, but can be very effective.

Soft engineering, on the other hand, works with nature. These strategies use natural materials and processes to protect the coast. They are often less expensive and more sustainable than hard engineering, but may require more maintenance.

Let's look at some specific types of coastal defences. A common hard engineering method is the sea wall. This is a large concrete wall, often curved, built at the foot of cliffs or the back of a beach. It acts as a barrier, reflecting the energy of the waves back out to sea.