Statistical analysis of factors influencing Cliff erosion along a section of the West Wales coast,U.K.

Cliff erosion along a section of the West Wales coastline is described. Rockfalls, mudslides, and retreating fencelines are evidence of current activity. Measurements over a two-year period (1983-85) gave mean annual recession figures of up to 0.25 m yr⁻¹ for glacial embayments. Wave refraction modelling and longshore beach surveys confirmed the existence of ‘high’ and ‘low’ beaches. Factors influencing variation in recession rates were identified and measured. Regression analysis suggested that the volume of beach-face material was the dominant explanatory variable in short-term cliff erosion.