12. How have the new coastal change maps been produced?
The University of Plymouth have devised a method for predicting coastal change related to the type of coast involved (estuary, cliff or beach). This is a complex process. For example, to estimate future cliff line positions, past retreat rates are combined with predicted future sea level rise using scientific formulae. For estuaries predicted sea level rises are combined with existing flood mapping from the Environment Agency. If you want to read the papers produced by Plymouth University giving details of the methods developed they are available at South West Partnership for Environment & Economic Prosperity (SWEEP) - Plymouth Marine Laboratory. We have also produced a briefing note to guide consideration of the issues by our Strategic Planning Committee and this is available at Agenda for Strategic Planning Committee on Tuesday, 20th October, 2020, 2.00 pm - East Devon.