Where is the Holderness coast is located?

Answer 1

Holderness is a peninsula in Yorkshire, England. Part of it is on the coast. It is generally thought to start in the North at Flambrough Head, and end at Spurn Point in the South.

The Holderness coast is located in the north east of England. This is one of the most vulnerable Coastlines in the world, retreating at a rate of one to two meters a year. There are two causes of the problem.

• Strong prevailing winds create a long shore drift that moves material southwards along the coast.
• The cliffs are made of soft clay, so they will erode quickly.

The village of Mappleton, perched on the cliff top, has approximately 50 properties. As the cliff is eroded away, the village is under threat.

In 1991, the decision was taken to protect the settlement of Mappleton, along the Holderness coast, south of Hornsea. A coastal management scheme costing £2 million was introduced. This involved two types of hard engineering: placing rock armor along the base of the cliff and building two rock groynes.

• The scheme has protected the settlement of Mappleton and the cliffs are no longer at great risk from erosion.
• The rock groynes have stopped beach material being moved south from Mappleton along the coast. This has increased erosion south of Mappleton.
• This shows that benefits in one area might have a negative effect on another area. This increases conflict between interest groups.

Answer 2

It has been eroded by attrition,solution,abrasion and hydralic action.