Seaham Durham Coastine - Architect Brahim Shoshi

BS

STUDY AND RESEARCH PROJECT

Seaham Durham Coastline

2023

Compositive Elements

The construction elements become the key to this project, as they have multifunctionality.

Positioning on the Map

Introduction

Through individual studies and research, it has been observed that the coastline is primarily utilized for fishing and attracts an increasing number of visitors due to its breathtaking coastal scenery. Seaham Durham’s coastline also harbors unique flora and fauna, which necessitate conservation and protection. Although significant studies are currently lacking, it is presumed that the seabed may also host equally rare species worth preserving. Consequently, a project has been undertaken to address the region’s needs by catering to the development of the fishing industry, the preservation of local wildlife and flora, the protection of marine and underwater species, as well as the promotion of tourism and the local economy. This research project serves as a preliminary and experimental endeavor, aiming to revitalize the coastal area of Blast Beach marine basin in Seaham Durham by constructing a protective dam. The dam comprises specially designed and engineered structural elements that serve not only as a containment barrier but also as artificial reefs, fostering an ideal habitat for the conservation of existing marine species and the cultivation of new underwater species.
Additionally the construction of a lightweight dam, with minimal underwater filling, is being explored. Above the water’s surface, an artificial island will be created, using reclaimed stones and sand gathered from coastal erosion and sedimentation.
This island will serve multiple functions and provide support for infrastructure and facilities crucial to the fishing industry, the preservation of local fauna and flora, underwater and marine research, and tourism, thus fueling the economic growth of Seaham Durham.
The partial enclosure of the marine basin by the protective dam creates the necessary conditions for the formation of a lagoon, which enhances the potential for industrial fishing cultivation.
Furthermore plans are underway to design underwater structures outside the protective barrier, facilitating the establishment of a small fishing port for vessel docking and fish trade.

ANALYSIS OF THE TERRITORY

MAP ANALYSIS OF THE HISTORICAL EVOLUTION OF THE TERRITORY

Seaham Durham maps terrytory orthophoto maps

LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY BOOK RAPRESENTATION

REPRESENTATION THROUGH LANDSCAPE PAINTINGS

POINT CLOUD

ORTHOPHOTO

Landscape survey, with the survey technique through the use of photogrammetry. The survey process through photogrametry was carried out in several phases:

Phase 1

Photographic survey of the area from a height of 80-150 m above the ground. Creation of a grid through photographic shots, with photographic overlap of at least 30% between one photo and the next for each shot.

Phase 2

The second phase consists in the union of the images and their processing to create a photographic mosaic to be able to build the basic orthophoto for the drawing.

Phase 3

Technical drawing, tracing the landscape represented in the basic orthophoto. Identifying buildings, roads, green areas, beaches, rocks and everything necessary.

LANDSCAPE SURVEY, WITH THE SURVEY TECHNIQUE THROUGH THE USE OF PHOTOGRAMMETRI

PLAN OF THE INTERVENTION AREA.

Landscape Architectural survey representing the current state of the intervention area.

ANALYSIS OF THE MORPHOLOGY OF THE INTERVENTION AREA

COASTLINE

Perspective view of the coast

HIGH COAST

LOW COAST

BEACH

NORTH SEA

SEA BED

HIGH COAST

LOW COAST

NORTH SEA

BEACH

SEA BED

ANALYSIS OF COASTAL EROSION

Lowering of the depth level along the coast due to constant silting.

Coastal erosion over the years

The erosive process along the coastline

Formation of a lagoon through the construction of a protective dam with artificial reef elements at "Blast Beach" Marine Basin

ANALYSIS

In-depth Site Analysis:

Upon delving into an experimental project at Blast Beach in Seaham, Durham, based on preliminary research conducted by me, further investigations are required to verify the presence of favorable hydrodynamic conditions for the successful feasibility of the project. These conditions take into account the geographical and morphological characteristics of the coast and its marine bed.

DESIGN

Designing the Dam with Structural Elements as Artificial Reefs: A protective dam is designed strategically to reduce coastal erosion and create a barrier between the open sea and the inner basin. The dam can be constructed using structural elements such as concrete blocks or prefabricated modules, capable of serving both structural and artificial reef functions, providing stability and durability.

Designing the Artificial Island on a Platform as a Protective Dam in Blast Beach Marine Basin, Seaham, Durham: This requires meticulous planning and the application of specialized engineering knowledge. The following are key points in designing an artificial island on such structures:

Material Selection: The choice of suitable materials is crucial for constructing the artificial island. Commonly used materials include sand, rocks, dredged sediments, or artificial blocks. The selection depends on site characteristics, local availability, and structural requirements.

Structural Design: The structural design of the artificial island must consider hydrodynamic forces, stability, seismic resistance, and long-term durability. Advanced structural analysis methods are employed to ensure the island can withstand anticipated stresses, including waves, currents, and land subsidence effects.

Shape and Size of the Island: The shape and dimensions of the artificial island are designed to provide a natural habitat and accommodate tourist structures while serving specific functions such as a fishing port and fish processing facilities. The island’s shape and size also influence material distribution and suitability for its intended purpose.

Environmental Sustainability: The design of the artificial island incorporates environmental impact considerations, promoting sustainability by utilizing reclaimed materials such as stones and sand eroded from the coast. It includes ecological elements such as lagoons and marine wildlife refuge areas to promote biodiversity. Additionally, it incorporates rainwater management systems, material recycling, and the use of sustainable energy technologies.

Approvals and Regulations: Obtaining approvals and compliance with local administration and internal regulations is crucial as they may vary depending on jurisdiction and environmental laws. A team of experts in the field is necessary to ensure the project meets all applicable regulations and obtain the necessary authorizations to commence construction.

DESIGN OF CONNECTING INFRASTRUCTURE

Designing the connection infrastructure, such as bridges or walkways, to link the coast of the marine basin with the artificial island built on the protective dam, as well as the infrastructure connecting the artificial island to the marine platform, requires careful planning to ensure safety and transportation efficiency between different areas. The following are key aspects in designing such infrastructure:

Site Assessment: Conducting a detailed assessment of the site is essential, considering marine conditions, terrain morphology, and the distance to be covered. This analysis will help determine the most suitable type of connection infrastructure for the project.

Type of Connection: Based on the site characteristics and project requirements, a bridge-type connection, combining bridge and walkway functions, has been determined. This choice is influenced by factors such as the length of the connection, marine conditions, tidal height, and required accessibility.

Structural Design: The structural design of the connecting infrastructure should consider safety, stability, and long-term durability. Advanced structural analysis methods will be used to ensure the structures can withstand static and dynamic loads, including tidal loads, wind forces, and potential seismic activity. The design will adhere to relevant design codes and standards.

Material Selection: The selection of suitable materials for the construction of the connecting infrastructure is crucial to ensure structural integrity and longevity. Factors such as strength, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appearance will be considered when choosing materials such as steel, concrete, or composite materials.

Accessibility and Safety: The design of the connecting infrastructure will prioritize accessibility for pedestrians and vehicles, taking into account the needs of different user groups, including people with disabilities. Safety features such as guardrails, lighting, and signage will be incorporated to ensure a secure and user-friendly environment.

Environmental Impact: Environmental considerations will be integrated into the design of the connecting infrastructure. Measures will be taken to minimize disruption to the natural ecosystem, such as avoiding sensitive habitats and implementing erosion control measures during construction. Additionally, energy-efficient lighting and sustainable construction practices will be utilized to reduce the project’s carbon footprint.

General proposal planymetry.

Analysis of the Territory

During the process of studying and analyzing the coastal area, it has been identified that the region consists mainly of a developing basin that is affected by soil erosion and sedimentation. Therefore, the project focuses on constructing a protective barrier along the affected coastline, utilizing the excess sand resulting from sedimentation. To minimize environmental impact, the protective barrier is designed following the principles of artificial reefs, aiming to promote fishing activity and create an ideal habitat for marine species.

Construction of the Protective Dam with Structural Elements as Artificial Reefs

The construction of the protective dam utilizes a dual-purpose modular structure, serving as both a containment barrier and artificial reefs. This approach minimizes environmental impact as the sandy surface present on the coastline is used to create the protective dam with structural elements that also function as artificial reefs. The excess sand derived from sedimentation, along with a layer of embedded stones, is utilized to form an artificial island on the surface of the dam. This process partially closes the marine basin, protecting the coast and creating the necessary conditions for the formation of an internal lagoon within the Blast Beach marine basin. Access to the protective dam and the created island can be provided through wooden walkways or locally sourced materials that have minimal impact on the environment, facilitating connectivity between the mainland and the protective dam. These walkways can also serve as safe areas for fishing activities and allow for exploration and monitoring of the marine surface.

PROJECT

Revitalization Project of the Blast Beach Coastal Area in Seaham Durham:

Construction of a protective dam using structural elements that function as artificial reefs, resulting in a partial closure of the marine basin and the formation of an internal lagoon.

Soil Recovery: The protective dam allows for the reclamation of land by utilizing excess sandy material from coastal sedimentation, creating a terrestrial surface on the dam that extends beyond sea level.

Protection against Coastal Erosion: The main objective of the protective dam is to safeguard the coast from erosion.

Mitigation of Sedimentation: The project aims to address the issue of sedimentation by utilizing excess sand for dam construction and artificial reef creation.

Creation of a Marine Habitat: The implementation of artificial reefs as structural elements in the protective dam promotes the establishment of an ideal marine habitat for the conservation of existing marine species and provides space for the emergence of new underwater species.

Safe Fishing and Site Adaptation: The protective dam offers secure areas for fishing activities, fostering the conservation of fish species and providing suitable structures.

Economic Growth: The project stimulates economic development by establishing a fishing port, supporting fish processing industries, and boosting the fish market.

Fish Market on the Artificial Island: The artificial island constructed on the surface of the protective dam serves as a fish market, facilitating the commercialization and sale of fish products.

The construction of the protective dam using artificial reefs generates a lagoon within the marine basin. The artificial island, created on the surface of the protective dam, not only reclaims land using excess sand from sedimentation but also provides a multifunctional space to accommodate the fish market and serves as a focal point for fishing-related activities and territorial enhancement.