The latest research on the man-made climate crisis has looked at the effects on the cliffs at Westward Ho!
Imperial College, London using some very nifty science is forecasting that the inevitable sea-level rise will see waves hammering against cliff areas not attacked before – with retreat rates up to ten times faster than today.
Of course, this faster erosion of cliff faces could replenish the pebbles along the Pebble Ridge at Westward Ho! which would be welcome especially as Torridge will soon have to decide whether to don King Cnut’s crown and help fund a £3 million (and that is only the initial cost!) coastal defence barrier to protect some low-lying houses in the resort.
Incidentally the study hasn’t allowed for more powerful storms which are associated with climate change and further exacerbate the rate of retreat.
(From Councillor Peter Christie)