The Gorleston Beach Problem

In the early 1960's, the harbour piers at Great Yarmouth were extended and made impermeable, which reduced the southward migration of sediment.

Subsequently there has been a build up of material on the beach to the north of the harbour and a loss of material from Gorleston beach to the south. The existing seawall at Gorleston was constructed from the 1930's to 1960's. Following an inspection of the seawall and analysis it has been estimated that unless action is taken sections of the seawall are likely to fail within the next 5 years, followed by further progressive collapse. Behind the seawall there are buildings and roads as well as infrastructure that would be lost following failure.

The Problem

Lowering beach levels have led to progressive deterioration of the seawall. The poor condition of the concrete seawall will eventually lead to failure when the already weakened areas are 'plucked out' during a storm event. This will allow the fill material behind the wall to be drawn out, leaving a void behind the wall. The structure will then fail in sliding and the promenade and surrounding area will rapidly erode.

There are two main issues regarding the integrity of the existing defences.

1. The condition of the concrete from which they are constructed is poor and is deteriorating.

2. The steel sheet piles, which prevent the structure from overturning, are in places badly abraided and corroded.

 

Something to think about.

Until the Government came up with £10m the Council never knew there was a problem with the Sea Wall.