Café Scientifique: Coastal Flooding & Erosion: Sidmouth Defence Scheme

This talk will explore the challenges facing Sidmouth's coastline and how different partners have worked together to develop a solution. Please note: you need to book via Eventbrite to reserve a place at this talk. Admission will cost £2.50 paid on the door and includes a drink of tea or coffee. This is a repeat of the talk given at the Science Festival in the Sid Vale Association building on 15 October. Talk by Steve Donnelly, South West Flood and Coastal The Sidmouth and East Beach Coastal Defence Scheme is one of the most significant coastal resilience projects currently being delivered on the Jurassic Coast. The project has been developed in response to the increasing risks posed by coastal erosion, storm damage, and flooding, which threaten homes, businesses, infrastructure, and the local economy. As sea levels continue to rise and storms become more frequent and intense, coastal communities such as Sidmouth face growing challenges in adapting to a changing climate. The scheme has been designed to provide long-term protection for the town while respecting the area's unique natural and historic environment. This talk will explore the challenges facing Sidmouth's coastline, the science behind coastal flooding and erosion, and how engineers, environmental specialists, and local partners have worked together to develop a sustainable solution. It will also examine the role of climate change in shaping future coastal risks and discuss the lessons that other communities can learn from the Sidmouth and East Beach project. The presentation is intended for a broad audience and will provide an accessible insight into how modern coastal defence schemes help safeguard people, places, and the natural environment for future generations. Steve Donnelly has extensive experience and technical expertise as a senior civil engineer with a career specialising in flood risk management, infrastructure delivery, and project leadership in both the public and private sector. An experienced marine and coastal project professional, he has led the delivery of complex infrastructure projects that protect communities, support economic growth and enhance the natural environment. As Project Manager for the £21m Sidmouth and East Beach Coastal Defence Scheme, he is overseeing the design, procurement, technical delivery, licensing, risk management and stakeholder engagement.