Coasts and estuaries are shaped by tides, waves and fluvial flows. These processes, which can vary due to climate change and sea level rise, drive sediment movement. Integrating an understanding of these processes, with a knowledge of how the coast has changed in the past, allows predictions to be made about future coastal change and the most appropriate management solutions The coastal manager must understand the interactions between landforms, sediments and physical processes at different space and time scales, being fully aware of historical coastal change and the potential effects of sea-level rise and other climate change impacts.
In order to support our coastal and estuarine processes studies, Halcrow’s own marine data acquisition team is able to capture site specific field data, including wave climate, tide levels and current flows, on which to base understanding.
We have our own numerical modelling team who utilise one, two and three-dimensional modelling software, software that Halcrow has developed in-house as well as commercial software packages including Delft3D and MIKE 11/MIKE 21. This can also be supported by physical modelling for which Halcrow provides expertise in the design and supervision of physical model test programmes.
These tools, when combined with a range of analytical techniques by our experts in coastal and estuarine geomorphology, allows us to test and refine processes understanding and ensures coastal projects are taken forward with an appropriate understanding of the implications and long-term sustainability in relation to natural processes.