Sea cliff - State 4, Semi-Stable landslips

A distinction is drawn here between those cliffs where periodic erosion occurs over time-scales which can be measured in 100s of years and those which are 'protected' by artificial structures (State 3) due to their more rapid rates of erosion. Because the erosion is represented by a massive failure of the cliff, much of the existing vegetation may remain on the slopes. Under these circumstances existing grassland, scrub and even woodland of some age may survive. Alternatively once the slope is detached from the land and where a chasm opens up access may be prevented. Under these circumstances natural woodland may become established entirely unaffected by human activity. Taken together these attributes impart a particular value on the State 4 sea cliff type. The Axmouth the Lyme Regis Undercliffes are probably the best example. Also extremely important are the cliffs at Folkestone Warren (see picture below) and on some of the cliffs on the Isle of Wight.

Caption: Folkestone Warren in Kent from the south. Note the recently eroded chalk in the foreground and the scrub in the middle distance clothing the more stable slippages. The railway line has been blocked in the past by major cliff falls. Work is ongoing to secure protection for the coast. However in the event of the railway closing the Shoreline Management Plan suggests there will opportunities for realigning the shoreline.

Comment: This area is covered by the Beachy Head to South Foreland Shoreline Management Plan, see http://www.shepway.gov.uk web site for more information.