The impact of ‘rock-fall’ mesh / netting on scientifically and educationally important geological exposures: a case study (ENRR679)

In 2004, proposals to apply mesh to scientifically and educationally important geological exposures at Black Rock, Brighton, both a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Regionally Important Geological / geomorphological Site (RIGS) were heard at a public planning inquiry. In preparation for this inquiry, considerable analysis and thought went into considering how best to assess and demonstrate the impacts of mesh on the important geological exposures at Black Rock. The inquiry provided a forum for rigorous examination of the evidence both for and against there being an impact from mesh, and the findings of the inquiry and the planning decision letter issued by the First Secretary of State provided further analysis and opinion on the subject. This report uses the Black Rock case study, including the public inquiry and subsequent findings, to consider the impacts of mesh on geologically important exposures. It goes on to provide a checklist which may be used in assessing the impacts of mesh on geological exposures of scientific and educational value in cases which may arise in the future.