Photo 3 (Return)

Durlston Flats cliff stabilisation, Durlston Bay. Durlston Flats built 10m from the cliff edge in 1976 became threatened by cliff retreat, requiring construction of a protection scheme in 1988-89. The scheme comprises rock-filled gabions on the mid and upper cliff with the toe supported by an extensive rock revetment. The aim was to protect the toe and face from erosion and weathering and to provide toe weighting. The provision of a £1.2 million scheme for a single block of flats is frequently cited as providing a strong argument for the alternative of offering compensation to residents to abandon their homes. Purbeck Heights apartment block (next-door but one to the left) is now threatened by cliff top recession and further options for cliff stabilisation have been proposed.