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Questions & Answers
Why are the works necessary?
The bay has suffered from the effects of ongoing erosion through historical lowering of the seabed thought to be the result of mining subsidence. This has resulted in deeper waves entering the bay which over time has removed much of the sand within it allowing erosion of the clay layers underneath the sand. If this process was allowed to continue the sea walls would eventually collapse placing nearby property at risk.
Will I be able to use the beach and promenade?
Your safety is of paramount importance and therefore it will be necessary to fence off the beach and promenade working areas. The fenced areas will be kept to the minimum necessary and more detailed information will be provided during the course of the works.
How much disturbance might there be?
With such a major project there is bound to be some disruption to village life but every possible step has been taken to
minimise this. For example, all materials for the breakwater and the sand will be brought in by sea. There will be vehicle
movements for the landscaping works and in order to complete the project by the Autumn, it will be necessary to undertake certain operations over a 24hour cycle to accommodate critical work stages and tidal conditions. The works will involve using machinery on the beach to move rock and sand to suit the daily tidal cycle and the dredger delivery schedule. A floating crane barge will be used to place rock and interlocking concrete units into the breakwater structure.
Will it be safe to use the Bay?
Access to the area immediately around the breakwater and beach works will be restricted. Buoys will be used to mark the pipeline carrying the sand to the beach. There will be a safe navigation route for use by fishermen, the Newbiggin Sailing Club, the RNLI and others. The dredger used to transport sand to the site will connect to the pipeline about 1.5km away from the beach.
