Phase 2 of AECOM’s Whitburn Bay to Ryhope Coast Protection Strategy review is underway. Engaging with coastal communities that live and work along the dynamic coastline is at the top of the agenda for Sunderland City Council.

The last Coast Protection Strategy was completed in 2001. With numerous surveys, inspections, and legislative changes in the 10 year intervening period, AECOM are now updating the strategy to bring it in line with current FCERM guidance and standards. The principal objective is to establish a sustainable framework with meaningful and affordable coastal management actions along the 9km coastline. On receipt of approval by the Environment Agency, the strategy will be ready for adoption by the council in early 2013.

AECOM worked to assist the council in identifying opportunities for additional funding and exploring this with potential beneficiaries by:

• clarifying the position on future funding to the council
• identifying possible private beneficiaries to contribute to coastal defence provision and maintenance
• engaging with these beneficiaries and seeking views on future willingness and ability to contribute to future schemes.

According to AECOM, the future aspirations of potential funding partners can often be delivered as part of publicly funded coastal defence / protection schemes. The value of potential contributions is essential to inform the strategy process in terms of the viability of schemes that will later emerge.

AECOM expects that by autumn 2012, following consultation with beneficiaries, the necessary works and funding scenario for the coastline will be in place.

Kevin Shield, senior engineer, Sunderland City Council, said:

“Throughout the duration of our Coastal Strategy Review contract, AECOM's coastal team have adopted a professional attitude and displayed a clear understanding of our coastal issues. Their experience and flexible approach to the contract has facilitated inclusion of changes in governing body policy and guidance to ensure that together we develop a comprehensive and sustainable programme of capital and maintenance works for the management of Sunderland City Council's coastal frontage.”

Contact Dave Wells, project manager at AECOM for further information about the project.