New rock revetment at Fairlight Cove

As part of a wider coastal protection programme, a new rock berm was constructed to help reduce erosion and strengthen the existing defences. Working on behalf of Mackley, we built a rock revetment within a challenging coastal environment. 

Project overview

Delivered over eight weeks, this £200,000 project formed part of Stage 3 of the Fairlight Cove Coast Protection Works near Hastings. The scheme involved the construction of a new rock revetment designed to provide additional protection to the coastline while integrating with existing coastal defence structures already in place along the frontage. Due to the site’s remote location and environmental sensitivities, the project required careful planning and a specialist marine expertise. 

The full works

We supported the construction of the new rock berm through the placement of approximately 20,500 tonnes of material, including: 

• 2,000 tonnes of 100–200kg filter stone 

• 18,500 tonnes of 3–6 tonne armour rock 

All rock materials were delivered directly to the beach by barge, while plant and equipment were transported to site using landing craft to minimise disturbance to the foreshore and protected the area’s prehistoric forest remains. The completed revetment was designed to tie into the existing coastal protection structures, creating a continuous line of defence against ongoing erosion. 

Delivering in a sensitive coastal environment

The coastal location presented a number of logistical challenges. 

Protecting environmentally sensitive areas was a key consideration throughout the programme, particularly the prehistoric forest remains located within the foreshore. The use of marine-based deliveries allowed materials and equipment to be brought to site without unnecessary impact on the surrounding environment. 

Rock placement operations were supported by GPS-guided technology, enabling accurate positioning of armour stone and helping ensure the revetment was constructed to the required profile. 

Favourable weather conditions supported progress throughout the programme, allowing works to advance efficiently and contributing to the overall scheme being completed ahead of schedule. 

Supporting long-term coastal protection

Projects such as Fairlight Cove highlight the importance of well-designed coastal defence infrastructure in helping protect vulnerable coastlines from erosion. 

By combining specialist plant, marine logistics and experienced operators, we supported the safe and efficient construction of the new rock revetment within a challenging coastal setting. The completed works provide an additional layer of protection for the coastline while strengthening the wider coastal defence network at Fairlight Cove.