Development and protection of the coasts in the Tallinn area

Abstract

The paper deals with the protection of the coastal areas of Tallinn and their primary development into harbours. The coast and coastal buildings are endangered by strong storm waves, especially in case of a high sea accompanying the storm. Due to the influence of waves, the coastal terrace recedes towards the land; in the bays the sands are whether deposited or swept away. Storms have caused major destruction to the coasts of Aegna Island and the Kakumäe Peninsula. The coastal area owners, the local authorities, and the organs of the state should take measures to protect the coasts through mutual cooperation and improvement of the valid legislation. The coasts and harbours within the boundaries of Tallinn are predominantly state-owned. In planning the development of the harbours it is necessary to reckon with the increase in passenger transport and sea tourism, environmental protection, safety and economic interests of the city, which have so far been somewhat neglected. Tallinn Municipality has begun to rearrange the administration of the coasts and harbours located within the city borders. Muuga Harbour plays a special role in further protection of coasts and development of harbours and could take over a major part of cargo transport within the boundaries of Tallinn. To ensure the safety of the harbour, a breakwater has to be constructed, however, it is a complicated and expensive task due to difficult geological conditions. The research conducted shows that the breakwater would increase considerably the safety of the harbour and is economically cost-effective.