Extension sought for coastal gas plant’s rock armour protection
A COUNCIL is seeking planning permission for another 25 years for a one kilometre (0.6-mile) stretch of rock armour to continue to protect one of the UK’s most important gas terminals from coastal erosion.
The terminal at Easington handles around 30 per cent of the supplies into the UK, and receives gas from Norway as well as from North Sea gas fields.
Opened in 1967, it was only expected to operate for 25 years, but further discoveries mean it will now continue to be used until at least 2045.
Back in 1999, English Nature, now Natural England, warned that the defences could disrupt the flow of sediment from the eroding cliffs, some of which ends up on intertidal habitats used by protected birds in the Humber estuary.
However the application, due to be discussed tomorrow, claims
there is “no evidence” that a lack of sediment has “adversely impacted” nearby wildlife habitats.
Although coastal defences are being extended at Withernsea eight miles away to protect a coastal road and homes from falling into the sea, the application says both stretches of rock armour will only result in a “very small reduction” in the supply of sands and gravels and an “immeasurable” impact on sites in the estuary.
The plans also say that the rock revetment will also secure the route of the proposed England Coast Path, which is due to open on the Holderness stretch later this year.
In December, Natural England chairman Tony Juniper described England’s coastline as a “national treasure” and said the path was “opening up access to historic landmarks, natural wonders and breath-taking scenery, enabling more visitors to experience, recognise and value the benefits of our environment”.
The 59-mile section between Filey Brigg and Easington should be ready around October.
Once complete the England Coast Path will be one of the world’s longest continuous walking trails, at 2,795 miles.