EACoastal process and inundation models are frequently used to identify flood and coastal risks. The results are then used to underpin decisions to invest in defence infrastructure to manage the risk. However, currently there are many known issues with the application of coastal models and the interpretation of the results.
The project provides a common framework and understanding of models and their use within Flood and coastal Erosion Risk Management (FCRM) and seeks to address the needs of those involved in the FCRM process by providing tools and guidance on key issues. This includes helping to identify the important issues in specific situations such as the considerations in estimating the wave conditions at a structure or on a beach.
The research will deliver a variety of tools including two reports, an interim report which focuses on the research and the findings of the consultation with stakeholders and includes proposed studies to fill gaps in knowledge, and a final report summarizing the finding of the project specific studies. The research will also deliver a guidance document which identifies key decisions, limitations and benefits of different approaches and modelling software as well as an investment planning tool. This provides descriptions of possible research and development projects, costs and outcomes as well as guidance on how these could be programmed using current knowledge and technology or delayed until these are improved.
The project focuses not just on flood modelling but to also examine models used in understanding coastal processes, in particular coastal erosion. The research also aims to drive consistency and has been taken on board by many different user groups.