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Breakwater Considered to Strengthen Sea Defences
01 Mar 2005
A £50 million pound harbour and breakwater is being considered as one of a number of the proposals to strengthen the sea defences at Weston on the north Somerset coast in the UK.
A predicted rise in sea levels of 50cm by 2050 has prompted North Somerset Council to draw up schemes to protect the town from flooding, with more than 500 properties being identified as being at risk from the sea.
The most ambitious of the projects, called an amenity water area, would involve the complete redevelopment of Knightstone Harbour. Two breakwaters would encircle the harbour, with a swing bridge between them allowing pedestrians to walk the full length of both breakwaters. The proposal could also include a lighthouse.
The beach around Knightstone Harbour would become a sheltered area, much like Marine Lake at present, and used for bathing and water sports.
If built, the new scheme could cost as much as £50 million, although a smaller, less ambitious scheme could be built for around £20 million.
The local council is hoping to secure up to £5 million in funding from the Department of Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).
