JBA Consulting
A recent structural survey of the Cobb found that it was suffering from serious scour and undermining in
many areas as well as structural movement. It has been estimated that without intervention failure of the
Cobb is likely to occur in approximately 20-30 years, leaving 60 properties exposed to coastal erosion.
West Dorset District Council commissioned a project to develop the design for repairs to the Cobb whilst
also wishing to deliver commercial and recreational amenity upgrades.
Given the structures listed status it was imperative that any interventions were sensitive to the historic
nature of the structure, balancing the needs for improvement against heritage impact and cost.
Challenge
The Cobb Harbour and breakwater is the oldest example of this type of structure in the
UK with the original elements dating back to the 12th century. Today the Cobb provides
coastal erosion protection to 60 homes and businesses within Lyme Regis, as well as
being the home for an active commercial fishing fleet, a leisure vessel fleet, an aquarium
and a RNLI Lifeboat station.
Lyme Regis Cobb Harbour and Breakwater Repairs and Refurbishment
Location: Dorset UK
Solution
Many improvement options were discussed to achieve the critical balance between the desire for structural and
amenity improvement and heritage acceptability. The improvements can be broadly split into the following
areas:
Event Date: 2017 - ongoing
Cllient: West Dorset District Council
Scour protection and structural interventions - preventing
further structure movement
Wave overtopping protection
Public amenity improvements - Improved access for all
(Equality Act, 2010), public H&S improvements,
improved visitor experience
Commercial amenity improvements - updating the
commercial fishing fleet landing quay.