Design for enhanced marine habitats in coastal structures

Abstract

A study to investigate the feasibility of modifying the current engineering design of coastal structures, in order to enhance their ability to provide marine habitats is described. In particular, a detailed account of the wave modelling undertaken to develop guidelines for the conceptual design of structures that can enhance the marine habitat is presented. Illustrative examples are used to demonstrate how wave and flow modelling can be used, in conjunction with ecological and engineering constraints, to derive performance design curves for different defence scheme layouts. Conclusions and implications for the design of future schemes are discussed.