MULTIDISCIPLINARY APPROACH FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF COASTAL RISKS AT CLOUGHANINCHY (WEST COAST OF IRELAND)

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to present the multidisciplinary approach adopted to undertake a detailed coastal flood and erosion risk management investigation at Cloughaninchy beach (Ireland). The site was severely affected by a series of extreme events with extreme high tide combined with a severe sea swell and onshore winds resulting in severe damage due to flooding and wave action as well as substantial retreat of the dune system. Based on a comprehensive assessment and multidisciplinary studies an appropriate plan was subsequently developed to best manage the risks identified and to further assess the feasibility of the recommended management plan options and measures. The project is an example of how vital the integration of specialized disciplines (coastal engineering, hydraulic flood modelling and coastal morphology) is in the determination of the appropriate protection measures for coastal sites.