Electronically-tagged pebbles used in new Hayling flood defence

ELECTRONICALLY-tagged pebbles will be mixed into shingle on Hayling Island so researchers can track movements of the beach.
Previous coastal defence works at Eastoke, Hayling Island. Picture: Eastern Solent Coastal Partnership.Previous coastal defence works at Eastoke, Hayling Island. Picture: Eastern Solent Coastal Partnership.
Previous coastal defence works at Eastoke, Hayling Island. Picture: Eastern Solent Coastal Partnership.

The Eastern Solent Coastal Partnership (ESCP) is starting work on recycling the shingle along the Eastoke frontage to reduce the risk of erosion and flooding.

As part of the work, ‘smart pebbles’ will have a hole drilled into them and a tag inserted before being scattered across the beach. Their movements can then be tracked and information used as part of future coastal schemes.

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The work is expected to last for two to three weeks and will see shingle moved from built-up areas towards Beachlands to depleted sections of Eastoke.

The ESCP is made up of Portsmouth City Council and Havant, Fareham and Gosport borough councils. They have chosen Boskalis Westminster Limited to undertake the works between 7am and 7pm from Monday to Friday.

The beach will remain open to the public but people are reminded to remain vigilant around the heavy machinery.