In 1991 a small-scale managed retreat experiment was initiated on Northey Island in the upper reaches of the Blackwater Estuary in Essex. The primary aim of the work was to provide a relatively long term solution to a sea defence problem on the south side of the island where the saltings had eroded to a narrow strip. The resulting destabilisation of the sea defence embankment meant that the viability of continued maintenance was questioned. The Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies (IECS) carried out a baseline study of the site and produced recommendations for the techniques required to produce a viable saltmarsh. This report draws together the results obtained up until 1994 in an attempt to identify trends.
A printed copy of this report is available from our Enquiry Service. Tel: 0845 600 3078 Email: enquiries@naturalengland.org.uk