A major £6 million research project in Cornwall is highlighting the growing urgency to rethink how coastal areas are managed in the face of climate change.
The “Making Space for Sand” programme, led by scientists at the University of Plymouth, is using advanced computer modelling and drone data to predict how sand dunes, beaches, and nearby infrastructure could retreat over the next 100 years due to rising sea levels and stronger storms.
Planning for the Coastline of the Future
Led by Professor Gerd Masselink, the research predicts that beaches and dunes in Cornwall could retreat by 30 to 50 metres within the next five decades. The aim is to give space for natural evolution—allowing dunes to shift inland and reduce the impact of storm surges and flooding.
“Dunes and beaches will retreat… and if there’s anything in the way, it will need to move,” said Prof Masselink. “That includes car parks, caravan parks, and even buildings.”
The project is gathering data from 40 beaches across Cornwall over five years, including Mawgan Porth, Polzeath and Perranporth—communities already experiencing the impact of flooding and erosion.
Communities on the Front Line
Local residents and business owners are already concerned. Surf coach Peter Abell, who runs King Surf at Mawgan Porth, fears for both his business and family home:
“We don’t want to lose our home. And the road through the village, which was never meant to be there, has become central to the whole community. We should do everything we can to protect it.”
But the research team stresses that full protection of all coastal assets is not financially viable. Instead, the project encourages planned adaptation, supported by better mapping and policy integration.
Dangerous Dunes and Public Safety
The effects of erosion are especially visible at places like Crantock Beach, where sand cliffs have become dangerously unstable. In 2024 alone, dunes receded by up to 9 metres, forcing closures of main beach entrances and posing serious safety risks.
“The waves are hitting much higher, cutting into the cliffs and dunes,” said Dominic Walford of Cornwall Fire and Rescue. “We could easily have a fatality if these dunes collapse onto unsuspecting beachgoers.”
Local agencies, including the RNLI, Coastguard, Crantock Surf Life Saving Club, and the National Trust, have issued warnings via signage, patrols, social media, and posters to improve public awareness.
Building Resilience Through Research and Policy
The Making Space for Sand project is one of 25 schemes funded by Defra’s £200 million Flood and Coastal Innovation Programme, delivered through Cornwall Council and the Environment Agency.
“We are working with communities and landowners to co-design adaptation strategies,” said a council spokesperson. “This is about building resilience while maintaining vibrant coastal communities.”
The project is aligned with broader strategies including the National Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Strategy and the Shoreline Management Plan for Cornwall.
Key Takeaways:
- Cornwall’s coastline is predicted to retreat significantly over the next 50–100 years
- Strategic planning is essential to allow dunes to function as natural defences
- Local communities must balance preservation, safety, and adaptation
- Making Space for Sand is a national example of forward-thinking, community-led climate resilience
