DURHAM HERITAGE COAST Management Plan 2005-2010 CONTENTS Page Page Chairman’S Introduction CHAPTER SIX

DURHAM HERITAGE COAST Management Plan 2005-2010 CONTENTS Page Page Chairman’s Introduction CHAPTER SIX ...... 34 Socio-economic Background CHAPTER ONE ...... 3 Introduction Overview and Introduction History A short history of the coast's regeneration Background to social and economic conditions Managing the Durham Heritage Coast Demography Vision and Objectives Integrated Coastal Zone Management Economy Plan Purpose Ethnicity and religion Structure of the Management Plan Education Health PART ONE Crime Housing Issues CHAPTER TWO ...... 12 Policy recommendations Features and Threats – the significance of the Heritage Coast PART TWO CHAPTER THREE Physical Profile ...... 14 Introduction Existing Uses of the Heritage Coast Geological features Colliery waste CHAPTER SEVEN ...... 39 Beaches Economic Pressure and Impacts Coastal erosion Tourism Beach profile data Issues Accretion Recommendations Mining subsidence Agriculture Future beach behaviour Issues Ecological impacts Recommendations Coastal defence Commercial fishing Issues Issues Policy recommendations Recommendations CHAPTER FOUR Natural Profile ...... 18 CHAPTER EIGHT ...... 44 Introduction Development Pressures and Impacts Geology Transport Landscape character Issues Biodiversity Recommendations Habitats of the Heritage Coast Dredging On the coast Issues On the beach Recommendations Offshore Built environment Species of the Heritage Coast Urban expansion Birds Issues Invertebrates Recommendations Marine mammals Fish CHAPTER NINE ...... 48 Significant flora Recreational Pressures and Impacts Issues Introduction Policy recommendations Access and Rights of Way Issues Recommendations CHAPTER FIVE ...... 31 Water based activities Historical and Cultural Profile Issues Early history Recommendations Roman evidence Scuba diving Medieval Issues Recent industrial past Recommendations War history Angling Maritime history Issues Issues Recommendations Policy Recommendations CHAPTER TEN ...... 52 Pollution Pressures and impacts Introduction Dog fouling Litter Issues Recommendations Anti-social activities Issues Recommendations Motorcycle use Issues Recommendations Car parking Issues Recommendations Wastewater Issues Recommendations Sewage effluent Issues Recommendations CHAPTER ELEVEN ...... 59 Educational Resource Introduction Universities Interpretation Issues Recommendations

PART THREE

CHAPTER TWELVE ...... 61 Strategic Programme, Resourcing, Monitoring and Review Introduction Strategic programme Resourcing Monitoring and Review Use of Indicators

CHAPTER THIRTEEN ...... 66 Action Plan Strategy 1 – Natural resources Strategy 2 - Cultural and historic resources Strategy 3 – Physical and social regeneration Strategy 4 – Sustainable Tourism Strategy 5 – Education, advocacy and training Strategy 6 - Partnership working

PART FOUR

Nature conservation designations Glossary Bibliography Management Plan prepared by Heritage Coast Staff Unit for Durham Heritage Coast Partnership.

April 2005

Durham County Council Design and Print Services.

Production funded by Countryside Agency, Durham County Council, District of Easington and City of Sunderland.

All photographs © Countryside Agency/Charlie Hedley.

Contact details

Durham Heritage Coast Partnership c/o Environment Durham County Council County Hall Durham DH1 5UQ T: 0191 383 3351 E: [email protected] www.durhamheritagecoast.org

If you require this information to be summarised in other languages or formats please contact us on 0191 383 3351.

0191 383 3351

0191 383 3351 0191 383 3351

0191 383 3351

0191 383 3351

0191 383 3351 A Vision for DURHAM HERITAGE COAST

"Integrated management of Durham Heritage Coast managed by and for local communities, protecting the natural and cultural integrity of the area whilst developing and meeting the area’s social and economic needs."

1 Chairman’s Introduction

Councillor Alan Barker

As Chairman of Durham Heritage Coast Partnership I am delighted to present the Durham Heritage Coast 2005 Management Plan. This plan builds on the initial work undertaken by the Turning the Tide Project and develops further partnership working and coordination of an integrated approach to coastal management allowing the flexibility of individual communities and agencies to contribute in their own particular way.

The Durham Heritage Coast has risen from such difficult beginnings. It is now hard to believe what it once was. We have a responsibility to continue it’s recovery and allow it to reach it’s potential as the most recently defined Heritage Coast in England and Wales. The past two years has seen considerable effort to engage the public and agencies in consultation and to reflect their views in the plan. Strategies and projects are being developed to manage our natural, cultural and historical resources, to promote tourism and leisure pursuits, improve access, education and information about our Heritage Coast. With increasing concern about the coastal and marine heritage not just nationally but throughout the world, it is now paramount that we look at how we manage these critical and important resources for our future. We now know that people and protected areas must work and live together and this is our greatest challenge.

The implementation of this plan offers us an opportunity to coordinate our activities and resources in a purposeful way to significantly enhance the quality of life, environment and well being of our coast and its communities. Above all it is about partnerships, between the managing agencies and stakeholders, between coastal communities and between all of us who use and enjoy the wildness and beauty of the coast and sea. Implementing this plan will allow us to begin this process of a more sustainable management of the coast and so securing its future and ours for generations to come.

Councillor Alan Barker Chair of Durham Heritage Coast Partnership

2 CHAPTER ONE Overview and Introduction

INTRODUCTION Our coasts hold an important and deeply special place in our cultural identity. Heritage Coasts represent the most special, undeveloped coastlines that are managed so that their natural beauty is conserved and where appropriate the accessibility for visitors is improved. Thirty one percent of the coast of England and forty two percent of Wales falls under the Heritage Coast scheme. In England, Heritage Coasts are managed by the relevant local authorities, often through a local management service, in consultation with other local landowners and other relevant agencies such as the Countryside Agency.

Many Heritage Coasts are part of a larger Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) or National Park (NP). Durham Heritage Coast is unusual in this respect as it one of the few areas that is not covered by AONB or NP status. This means that the area does not receive the same financial support from central government bodies or share the same level of legal recognition. Increasing the status of Heritage Coasts is critical in securing their future.

The Durham Coast is a unique asset. Its value for wildlife, history and local culture is high and through Heritage Coasts in the United Kingdom. Courtesy Countryside Agency careful management is set to increase in future years. Developing the areas own local distinctive character and identity is a critical part of the process. This management plan is a first step in pulling together what we currently know about the coast and securing agreement on how the coast is managed. Sharing a vision and creating the correct Heritage Coasts mechanisms to carry out the necessary actions can achieve this. The involvement of local communities is These special coastlines are managed so that paramount to the success of management on the their natural beauty is conserved and, where coast. There is now a unique opportunity available appropriate, the accessibility for visitors is to begin to achieve the vision of the Partnership for improved. The first Heritage Coast to be the coast's future. defined was the famous white chalk cliffs of Beachy Head in Sussex, the latest the Durham Coast. Now much of our coastline, like the sheer cliffs of Flamborough Head and Bempton, with their huge seabird colonies, is protected as part of our coastal heritage.

3 Durham Heritage Coast R. Wear Sunderland The Durham Heritage Coast is an attractive coastal Key A690 Durham Heritage landscape of magnesian limestone grasslands, cliffs, Coast pebble and sandy beaches stretching between the two main conurbations of Tyne and Wear and Ryhope Potential Phase 2 Teesside. Until recently this was one of the most heavily polluted coastlines in Britain, a legacy from A19 over a hundred years of dumping colliery waste from its six coal mines along the beaches. Seaham North Following the closure of the local coal mines in the 1980s, the 'Turning the Tide' project was Murton Sea implemented, which has seen the successful A19 transformation of the coastline. The removal of the A182 spoil heaps and debris from the beaches and cliff tops, and the conversion of large areas of arable land to magnesian limestone grassland has Easington rejuvenated the coastline.

Much of the Coast is of national and international Peterlee A1086 nature conservation importance. In recognition of the considerable improvements in the quality of the coastal landscape and the fine restored magnesian A181 limestone grasslands, denes, cliffs and stacks, the Wingate area was defined as a Heritage Coast in March 2001 A19 by the local authorities and the Countryside Agency and covers 14km of the coastal area. A179 Hartlepool

The Durham Coast joins the two conurbations of N Tyne and Wear and Teesside and lies within the local authorities of County Durham, District of Easington, A689 City of Sunderland. Hartlepool Borough Council are R. Tees also included as an interested neighbour. Durhams Heritage Coast

The defined Heritage Coast consists of three sections in the early 1990s. The management area is of undeveloped coastline, interrupted by the characterized by low educational attainment, few developed areas of the harbour town of Seaham opportunities, poor health and ranks amongst the and an aspirant area around Castle Eden lowest 10% of wards in the region for people in Denemouth. This latter area was not included within employment (District of Easington, 2002). Despite the formal designation as the quality of the beach this, the coastal area is a rich natural and cultural has yet to reach the required standard. Natural asset, important to the region's economy and well- wave action will gradually erode the remaining being. colliery waste, enabling this stretch to be considered for inclusion in the near future. The southern Turning the Tide boundary of the Heritage Coast appears somewhat arbitrarily drawn, recognising a political boundary This heavily degraded coastline rather than a natural, scenic one. A review of the emphasised the deprivation of the area area is required in order to redefine the boundaries until a partnership of fourteen to include the rest of the dune and beach system of organisations came together between 1997-2002 to Hart and North Sands as well as a re-assessment of regenerate the coast of Durham. The Turning The the Denemouth area. Tide (TTT) Partnership successfully regenerated and cleaned up the coastal strip. A £10 million A short history of the coast's regeneration programme of environmental improvements was implemented through a hundred separate projects. Durham’s coastal environment was devastated by the industrial use of the coastal zone by the coal mining industry throughout the 20th Century. Original programme aims of Turning The Tide Wildlife, habitats and the landscape suffered heavily, discouraging visitors and leaving the local To restore, enhance and conserve the communities with little sense of pride. Parts of the environmental quality of the Durham Coast coast became derelict and suffered from vandalism To encourage sustainable use and enjoyment and misuse. Illegal tipping was widespread and of the Durham Coast remains a problem in some areas today. To rekindle local pride and a sense of The area has suffered from widespread social and ownership of the Durham Coast economic deprivation since the closure of coal-mines

4 The projects achievements can be broken down into north and south have the European designation, SPA four main areas: (Special Protected Area) for species such as the Purple Sandpiper in the north and the Little Tern in Removal of spoil and debris the south. Further enhancements included working with local Natural marine erosion has begun the process of communities to reduce the impact of eyesores such removal of spoil to bring the beaches back to their as allotment fences. More substantial works have normal level over the next 20 years or more. In completely regenerated the sea front at Seaham. addition to the colliery spoil, a large amount of The coastal car parks and promenade were mining debris was discarded on the shore. A regular overhauled in a project to provide much improved regime of cleaning was established to clear the coast facilities for this gateway to the coast. of this kind of debris. Colliery reclamation sites at Easington and Horden had large cliff edge spoil Raising awareness and changing attitudes heaps. In both cases heaps were removed and spoil was spread over the sites, capped and covered with The challenge to the TTT partnership was not only to soil to create public open space at Easington and for provide improved facilities but also to encourage habitat creation at Horden. In total, 1.3 million their full use. tonnes of spoil was removed and 80 hectares of land was reclaimed by this process. A family of publications was produced to promote the new facilities and identify points of interest. Way Improving and creating access marking made the coastal footpaths and cycle routes easy to follow. Award winning interpretation and Access was improved by providing facilities that commissioned artwork, with a high element of local enabled people to use the coast for informal community participation, has been used to stimulate recreation. Twenty kilometres of footpath were interest. created to form the Durham Coastal Footpath enabling people to walk this particular stretch of The techniques used to change the use of the coastal coastline for the first time. Links from the main strip involved changing people’s attitudes towards route to the coastal villages allow for local circular it. The area’s history of neglect conferred a lack of walks as well as for a day long extended route. respect, evident in activities such as fly tipping, car dumping and illegal motorcycling. Involving local In addition the Partnership installed 47 kilometres of people in the consultation, planning and delivery of cycle route as part of the National Cycle Network. the programme has increased the value held for the Linking local villages, schools and the newly created resulting improvements. Local groups have taken on enterprise zone; the cycleways provide a safe route wardening roles and participated in the physical not only for leisure and recreational use but also as work. an environmentally friendly, sustainable method of transport to work, school and home. Looking forward

Enhancing Habitat Creation The success of Turning the Tide provided the framework for the Heritage Coast definition and the The Durham Coast hosts 92% of the total area of foundation for changing the management para-maritime magnesian limestone grassland structures in the area. There is now an opportunity habitat in Britain. The Partnership has purchased to protect this worthwhile investment, continue to much of the agricultural land on the coastal fringe rehabilitate the coastal zone and direct appropriate and, using the local seed bank, has converted a development and education activities for local further 225 hectares of land for habitat creation. communities. The coast has a rich and varied Much of the TTT programme has been designated as wildlife, habitats and landscape that are now Sites of Special Scientific Interest and National recovering from past industrial assault. The Durham Nature Reserve. Two foreshore areas to the extreme Heritage Coast is proving able to compete with other areas of the region's coastline in attracting visitors by increasing tourism interest and potential. In addition to its rich natural history, there exists a rich cultural history extending back to the Iron Age. More recent modern history through the Wars with pill boxes along the cliffs and the intense industrial past give the area a unique identity and provides the Heritage Coast Partnership with an opportunity to turn this coast into a unique destination to visit and an enjoyable place to live and work.

5 In addition, to support community involvement

A Forum/Conference will be held annually to provide an opportunity for a wider range of local and community interests to input to the management of the area. A further two members will be elected from the community to sit on the steering group.

Time-limited, small, specialist working groups may be formed as and when necessary to assist with or provide guidance on specific projects and initiatives. These would provide the opportunity for a wide range of individuals Walking the coast path and interest groups to become actively involved in the management of the coast. MANAGING THE DURHAM HERITAGE COAST Vision and objectives Each of the local authorities involved in the Heritage Coast have formally committed to protecting the This plan gives a picture of where we are now. It defined areas and to focussing management identifies the main concerns by covering the natural attention on the distinctive issues faced on the coast. resources, the cultural and historic elements and the Each authority has also committed to incorporating social and economic conditions in coastal the protection of the Heritage Coast into their communities. But it is where we want to be in five statutory plans. years time that is the real message of the plan.

The management structure of the Heritage Coast In five years we want the coast to be an area that Partnership is a legacy of the successful 'Turning the stands alone for its beauty and its naturalness, is an Tide' Partnership with recommendations resulting inspiring and exciting place to visit and a dynamic from a formal governance review in 2003. This place to live. Developing the local character resulted in the continuation of the successful multi- and distinctiveness of the management area is agency partnership of Turning the Tide, paramount to its role in the regions strengthened with the addition of new partners, the development. The partnership expresses this in City of Sunderland, Hartlepool Borough Council and the adopted vision; local community groups. The Heritage Coast is tasked with retaining and strengthening this focus and building on the level of involvement of local communities in future decision-making.

The Partnership have adopted the following key objectives to guide management of the Heritage Coast

1. To conserve, protect and enhance the natural beauty of the coast, including the terrestrial, littoral and marine flora and fauna, geological interest, and its heritage features of architectural, historical and archaeological interest

2. To facilitate and enhance the enjoyment, understanding and appreciation of the public by improving and extending opportunities for recreational, educational and tourist activities, including sport and art, that draw on, and are consistent with the conservation of its natural beauty and the protection of its heritage features.

3. To maintain, and improve the environmental health of inshore waters affecting the Heritage Coast and its beaches through appropriate works and management.

4. To take account of the needs of agriculture, forestry and fishing, and the economic and social needs of the small communities on the coast, by promoting sustainable forms of social and economic development, which in themselves conserve and enhance natural beauty and heritage features.

5. To promote community participation in the stewardship of the coast, optimising the potential of social and economic regeneration initiatives that are consistent with the conservation of the natural beauty and the protection of the heritage features of the Heritage Coast.

6. To integrate fully with adjoining areas and within the region to actively promote Integrated Coastal Zone Management.

6 Durham Heritage Coast Vision

"Integrated management of Durham Heritage Coast by and for local communities, which protects the natural and cultural integrity of the area whilst developing and meeting the area’s social and economic needs."

To guide progress towards this vision the partnership has adopted six key objectives. All work carried out by the Heritage Coast Partnership must work towards one or more of these objectives.

STRUCTURE OF THE MANAGEMENT PLAN

The aims of the Durham Heritage Coast Management Plan are

to review current status and knowledge of the Durham Heritage Coast Management Plan area to identify main issues and threats to draw partners together to provide a consistent framework for action to identify policies and actions that will achieve benefits to the areas natural resources and improve the development of the local economy and society to adopt an appropriate strategy for the period of the plan 2005-2010 Bloody Cranes bill grow prolifically on the cliffs to clarify roles and responsibilities of agencies involved to identify indicators of success Policy Codes to develop a timeframe for actions After each section on resource assessment and use patterns are identification of issues. Below this table The plan considers the coastal area in terms of its appears a list of suggested policy options to mitigate physical, geological, biological, and cultural-historic the issues and threats. assets in an attempt to set the scene. Existing use patterns and social economic conditions that give The table below shows codes assigned to policies. rise to negative activities and pressures on the coast are identified. Table 1.2

For each, a profile of the conditions and situations relating to this is provided with identification of Heading Code used main issues, negative consequences and policy recommendations. The plan format aims to give a Physical Profile P clearer picture of the situation and interacting Geology G factors and issues in play in the coastal zone. Wildlife and biodiversity Species S Habitats H STATUS OF RESOURCE Cultural and historic C Socio economic SE Educational E Identification of Issues and Threats to resources Regeneration R Tourism T

Features and Threats

Recommended Policies

Strategies/Management Action

7 Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) Some of the recognised benefits of the ICZM It has been agreed by the Partnership that this plan approach are: should adopt the principles of Integrated Coastal Zone Management. The coastal zone to most people Improved partner understanding is the physical area between land and sea, the Greater public awareness shoreline and its direct hinterland. But for practical Improved decision making coastal zone management one must also consider Agreement on policies the sea adjacent to that coast as well as the beaches More sustainable tourism and the hinterland and its environs. Coherent spatial planning ICZM is an approach with a short history, but one Stronger community feeling which has been recommended for coastal areas by Improved school and education initiatives the European Parliament (Rec 2002/413/EC). This EU More sustainable fisheries recommendation obliges European countries to take Habitat restoration on the management of coastal areas using an ICZM Reduction of pollution approach. Lower environmental vulnerability Reduced flooding and erosion Three fundamental principles apply to ICZM Better quality of life (International Institute Rural Reconstruction, 1998) Landscape improvements Reduced traffic costs A) Adaptive management (Firn and McGlashan, 2000) Adaptive and flexible management planning is critical in formulating continuing successful plans and actions for the protection of the management unit and in assessing policy needs for the area.

Management of the Durham Heritage Coast will remain flexible in its approach. The input of stakeholders in the management process and appropriate mechanisms such as local fora, workshops and specialist working groups, (where needs and issues can be raised); regular monitoring and review will ensure an adaptive management approach.

B) Integration of issues

The core of this process is the integration of issues in the coastal area and the addressing of these issues in such a way that does not unduly compromise the other elements. ICZM provides a forum where real and perceived conflicts and issues can be resolved by an inclusive and multi-sectoral approach. Its structure investigates issues on the local scale but recognizes the need for trans-boundary, regional and national action.

Involvement at the grass roots level in terms of consultation, awareness raising and educational activities, along with the involvement of stakeholders at the management and decision making level will ensure that issues are not considered in isolation. It allows conflicts to be resolved to the best that the situation requires without compromising the management area's assets. The further involvement of organisations with a regional, national and European perspective ensures that management is consistent with other wider policies.

8 Durham Heritage Coast Partnership

The structure of the partnership is;

Sixteen members, the core of which comprise representatives of:

local community interests (Blackhall Regeneration Partnership, Horden Regeneration Partnership, Easington Colliery Regeneration Partnership, Ryhope Development Trust, Seaham Town Council (5 in total)

the four local authorities (Durham CC, Easington DC, Hartlepool BC and City of Sunderland) (4 elected members)

a small number of key statutory agencies (Countryside Agency, Environment Agency, English Nature) ( 3 in total)

the National Trust, the Durham Wildlife Trust, Groundwork East Durham and Northumbrian Water as key land owners/managers on the coast (4 in total)

In addition English Heritage acts in an observer role

Plan purpose

The overall purpose of this plan is to guide the delivery of the vision and the objectives for the next five year period, encouraging the continuation of partnership through a focussed, integrated approach. The plan contains a review of the current C) Community involvement and ownership status of the area and identifies the main management issues and threats. To address these Local stakeholders and communities will be involved appropriate strategies and management actions are and consulted at all stages of the management adopted for the period 2005 – 2010. process from data gathering, issue identification to the management of the area. Raising awareness is This will ensure the continued protection of an area critical in making any protected area successful, of special beauty and high nature conservation evidence from around the world establishes that value, whilst also protecting the substantial protected area management will only succeed if investment made in the coast during the Turning the backed by the public and supported by appropriate Tide programme that transformed the coast. top down integrated policy and enforcement procedures What we want to achieve for the coast in five years time? Management of the Durham Heritage Coast will be with community input using existing mechanisms In five years we want the coast to be an area that such as village level Regeneration Partnerships. The stands alone for its beauty and its naturalness, is an vision is of coastal communities managing and inspiring and exciting place to visit and a dynamic celebrating the coastal resources, with no loss to the place to live. Developing the local character and biological, geological and cultural integrity of the distinctiveness of the management area is area. paramount to its role in the regions development. But it is in detailing where we want to be in five years time and how that progression is to happen, who will implement these tasks and what will be measured and reported to all those involved; that is the true message of the plan.

9 Who is the plan for? Heritage Coast Management Team

This document presents a rather technical approach A core management team consisting of a Heritage to management. It is aimed primarily at local Coast Officer, supported by a Projects Officer, an authorities, statutory agencies and public bodies but Education and Community Officer and an Office also for all those organisations with an interest in Manager serve the Heritage Coast Partnership. The the coast. We appreciate that by the nature of the Management Team is responsible for protecting and plan, its accessibility is limited. It is a prime objective enhancing the Heritage Coast through; the of the Heritage Coast Partnership that local development and delivery of the management plan, communities are engaged in the management preparing a Business Plan for the partnership for the process. For this reason a summary leaflet will be period and developing, resourcing and prepared and distributed to a wider audience. implementing appropriate projects. The team is currently housed in County Hall, Durham by the host Steps taken in the production of the plan authority. It is recommended that the team be extended to include a tourism and marketing officer One role of this Management Plan is to seek to in 2006. The staff unit is supported by a small Officer influence other plans and strategies, to adopt strong Support Group to provide technical advice and complementary policies, and comprehensive and guidance to the Staff Unit. consistent standards of management and protection for the Heritage Coast. Table 1.1 lists the relevant It is stressed that the management of the Heritage plans and strategies that have been consulted in the Coast is inclusive, adaptive and flexible; it follows plans production under their most relevant that this plan therefore, must be a dynamic headings. document. It can only represent the position at the time of writing. The current physical status, issues Two workshops held in 2001, a Quality of Life review and proposed strategies and actions that follow in October 2001 and a governance review in 2003 arise from the current position. With time there will have contributed to this management plan. Key be physical changes, external factors will bring new findings from the workshops have been or alter existing issues and priorities. We therefore incorporated into the consultation draft of the plan. welcome your comments across the whole life of this A first draft of the plan was produced in November plan; feel free to contact the management team at 2002 with a second draft June 2003. Comments from any time with your thoughts or opinions, the contact Partner agencies have been used in preparation of details are at the front of the plan. the consultation draft issued in March 2004. Wider public consultation resulted in the final version of the Plan. A report on the final wider public consultation was produced and is available on request or via the Durham Heritage Coast website (www.durhamheritagecoast.org).

10 Table 1.1 Relevant and related plans

Theme Plan Date Date Organisation/authority

Natural Resources Shoreline Management Plans 1b 1c 1997 1999 North East Coastal Group

Shoreline Monitoring Strategy 2004 District of Easington

Shoreline Monitoring Strategy 2004 City of Sunderland

County Durham Minerals Local Plan 2000 Durham County Council

Performance Plan 2004 North East Sea Fisheries Committee

Environment Agency Corporate Strategy 2002 Environment Agency (Making it happen)

Durham Biodiversity Action Plan 1999 Durham Biodiversity Plan Partnership

Geological Conservation Strategy 1994 Durham County Council

Local Environment Agency Plans 1998 Environment Agency Tees/Wear/Tyne

Landscape and Woodland Strategy 2004 Durham County Council

Durham Coast National Nature 1999 English Nature Reserve Management Plan

Castle Eden Dene National Nature 2000 English Nature Reserve Management Plan

White Lea Farm Management Plan 2001 National Trust

Burdon Local Management Zone 2002 Great North Forest

Cultural/Historic Regional Cultural Strategy 2001 One NorthEast

County Durham Cultural Strategy 2002 Durham County Council

Easington Cultural Strategy 2002 District of Easington

City of Sunderland Cultural Strategy 2004 City of Sunderland

Socio-economic and Regional Economic Strategy 2001 One NorthEast regeneration

Rural Action Plan 2002 One NorthEast

Quality of Life North East 2002 Sustaine

Regional Tourism Strategy 2005 One NorthEast

Sustainable Rural Tourism 1995 Countryside Agency

Regional Cycling Tourism Strategy 2002 One NorthEast/ Countryside Agency/ Sustrans

Community Strategy 2003 District of Easington

Planning and Transport Draft Regional Transport Plan 2002 North East Assembly

Planning Guidance Notes 2002 Government Office North East

Local Transport Plan 2003 County Durham

Local Transport Plan 2001 Tyne and Wear

Local Transport Plan 2001 Hartlepool

County Durham Structure Plan 1999 Durham County Council

Unitary Development Plan 1998 City of Sunderland

Local Plan 2001 District of Easington

Local Plan 2003 Hartlepool Borough Council

11 PART ONE CHAPTER TWO Features and Threats - The significance of the Heritage Coast

INTRODUCTION Summary of special features of the Heritage The Durham Heritage Coast has come from such Coast difficult origins. The heavy industrialisation of Landscapes Magnesian limestone grasslands the area not only drastically altered the Woodlands and coastal gills landscape but the social and cultural conditions Sand dune Strandlines of local communities. Its subsequent Rocky shores regeneration is perhaps its greatest achievement. Seascapes Kelp beds Wrecks and reefs In many ways the dominance of the mining Sensory Wild space industry protected the area from coastal Dramatic cliff and seascape Wide open views up and development leaving behind the wide open down coast vistas of undeveloped coastline paving the way Present and past evidence of industry-rail tracks, mine sites for the rich magnesian limestone habitat we have and structures today. Although the spoil remains on beaches Sense of naturalness in largely urban backdrop and suspended in coastal waters often being Intimacy of denes and gills deposited onshore, the areas recovery is nothing Dynamic changing coastline and its visible recovery short of remarkable. Biodiversity Grassland Dunes The special features of the coast are summarised in Intertidal the following table. In addition the local Subtidal communities also provide their own particular Denes and gills cultural heritage to the coast. Firmly rooted in the Shoreline habitats Birds mining industry, coastal villages retain their own Invertebates identity and particular local history and culture that Plantlife has rarely been tapped. Geological Magnesian limestone Zechstein Sea fossilised barrier reef Cave and stack systems The Highlights of the Durham Heritage Archaeology From Mesolithic to present Coast can be summarised as Maritime archaeology Important Early Christian sites Dramatic cliff top and seascapes Historic landscapes Mesolithic Bronze Age Rich magnesian grasslands Roman Wooded denes and gills Industrial (mining, quarrying, Geological significance limestone) Coastal footpath Developed landscapes A dynamic and recovering environment Built environment Mining villages Nationally and internationally important fauna Medieval and flora Lighthouse and harbour Varied cultural history Limekilns Medieval buildings and colliery buildings History and Early Christianity Seaham Harbour cultural identity Angling Examples of post industrial regeneration from Coastal trade and industry most polluted beaches in Europe to one of the Environmental Beach water quality UKs finest countryside Air Quality Recreation and Rights of Way tourism Bridleways Coastal footpath Beach access from high cliffs Tranquillity

12 The areas integrity and management is development in the regional setting as a destination. compromised by a number of issues and these are summarised below; Urban fringe social and economic factors

Overcoming its history The Heritage Coast, although a rural coastal setting is set against a backdrop of urban social and The Durham Heritage Coast has been known for its economic issues that have a heavy impact on the industrial history. Creating a sense of what the area area. The needs of local communities are tied up in offers in its future is one our greatest challenges. the management of the area and addressing issues The dramatic images of coal mining, desolate such as livelihoods, education, employment, landscapes, social problems and its use in films such transport and access to services is a critical factor in as Get Carter, Aliens 3 and more recently Billy Elliot retaining the sites integrity. is slowly lifting in the minds of local people and increasingly outside the region. Rebuilding the areas Inappropriate tourism developments image will require not just physical and social improvements on the coast but intelligent and As the area continues to recover and as its profile targeted marketing of the new resource on offer. increases locally and regionally, tourism as a tool in management will become increasingly valuable and Low levels of awareness regarding the areas promoted. It is critical that the undeveloped and definition. tranquil nature of the protected area is a paramount consideration in all developments and that activities Recent research by ONE indicates that there is a low are coordinated through the Heritage Coast level of awareness of the area’s status in local Partnership. communities and visitors. Increased levels of awareness and understanding of the areas Loss of longer term funding commitment to a significance and management will greatly aid in a dedicated officer team more supportive public and policy makers allowing the area more opportunity to develop a sustainable In order to coordinate the development of the future. protected area and allow the area to reach its potential and its well-earned place in the regional Lack of knowledge about natural and historic family of protected areas, a dedicated team is character required. Long term funding is problematic but to ensure that the considerable investment and There is a low level of knowledge regarding the momentum of the programme is continued a more natural environment and especially its recovery. secure source of funding is paramount. Likewise the areas historic character, from pre- history to more recent time would benefit from Lack of Legislation detailed research to understand the longer term requirements in management and to develop its Heritage Coasts do not enjoy the statutory distinctive local character and identity. protection afforded to National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This lack of legal status Development pressure that lacks sympathy compromises the management areas integrity and for the protected area and its longer-term the ability of the management team to implement management. policies and action to ensure adequate protection.

There is a danger that development plans will Similarly Heritage Coasts do not enjoy the same impact the undeveloped and natural character of financial support from central government which the Heritage Coast. With the non statutory nature of further compromises any longer term management the management area and no certainty that the planning. programme will continue, ensuring that the assets of the coast are protected, coordinated and managed is These features and threats are explored in much critical for its long term survival. Sectoral and greater detail in the following chapters on the uncoordinated development plans compromise the individual topic profiles with associated policy areas integrity as a natural and cultural asset in the recommendations. region.

Anti social behaviour

The widespread social issues in the area continue to fuel anti social behaviour and local crime. Not only are such activities damaging from an environmental and wildlife perspective but they heavily impact the overall character of the area for residents and visitors. Widespread littering, fly-tipping and car disposal for example reduce the appeal of the protected area and compromise its future

13 CHAPTER THREE Physical Profile

INTRODUCTION

This section gives an overview of the physical and Hendon geomorphological factors that have shaped and A1018 BAYS ALONG DURHAM HERITAGE COAST Salterfen Rocks MARKED are shaping the coast. It is taken from surveys Ryhope conducted in 2003 by Posford Haskoning (in prep) and a geomorphology survey (Brew, 2003). Pincushion A19

Featherbed Rocks Highlights Seaham

Liddle Stack A dynamic and recovering area. Spoil Nose’s Point Murton remains on beaches creating built up A19 terraces, rapid erosion has exposed Chourdon Point beaches and cliffs, speeding a return to Beacon Point Shippersea Bay background conditions. Increased erosion A182 Easington North will allow formation of saltmarsh areas. Fox Holes However erosion and subsidence threatens Sea Horden Point beach access, and built environment. Accretion in the south feeds wide sand Peterlee beaches and the only sand dune system in Dene Mouth Dene Holme the management area. A1086

A181 Blackhall Rocks Wingate Since Victorian times, colliery waste has been Crimdon disposed of onto Durham’s beaches. Rates of tipping Park escalated after the Second World War reaching 2.4 A19 million tonnes a year by 1970 until closure of mines N in the early 1990s (Posford Duvivier, 1993). Although A179 Parton Rocks A689 there were extensive clean ups conducted during Turning the Tide, the level and extent of tipping has From north to south the area is made up of a series of headlands and bays. changed the beaches physical properties increasing its resistance to erosion when compared with the original sediment of the area. Natural erosion has thus been significantly reduced.

Bay Area covered

Ryhope Beach Pincushion to Salterfen Hendon Hendon area Blast Beach Noses point to Chourdon Point Hawthorn Hive Chourdon to Hive point/Beacon Point Shippersea Bay Hive Point/Beacon point to Shippersea bay Easington Beach Shippersea to Fox Holes/Horden Point Horden Beach and Blackhall Beach Fox Holes/Horden Point to Blackhall rocks Crimdon Beach and North Sands Blackhall to Parton Rocks/Hartlepool

14 Crimdon, steep wooded valleys (called "denes" locally) bisect the cliff line, and extend some distance offshore. The most well formed denes are Seaham Dene, Hawthorn Dene, Foxholes Dene, Castle Eden Dene, Crimdon Dene, Warren House Dene and Blackhills Dene (Brew, 2003).

Colliery waste. The mining industry on the Durham Coast exploited the coal seams lying some 300m below the Magnesian limestone. Mining waste from collieries at Dawdon, Horden, Easington and Blackhall was largely tipped onto their adjacent beaches. The resulting raised beach levels left the Blast Beach showing darker remnants of the coal industry on the original cliffs isolated from the effects of the sea and foreshore the accumulating material has allowed unusual vegetation to take hold on beaches. The management area is characterised by a series of headlands and bays. Headlands, combined with Beaches. Posford Duvivier (1994) and Babtie (1999) accelerating erosion, influence the shape and defined the coast between Sunderland and development of the shoreline. The physical shape Hartlepool in three sections. Between Sunderland and composition of the shoreline has been and Seaham Harbour, the beaches are generally of drastically altered by the impact of the coal industry natural composition (uncontaminated by colliery extending and raising the beaches through the waste) and consist of sand and shingle. Between dumping of spoil. These physical processes shape the Seaham Harbour and Blackhall Rocks beaches are environment of the coast and have an impact on the contaminated with colliery waste. The intertidal biological and visual appeal of the area. area is steep and narrow, and consists of both natural sediments and shingle-size colliery waste. A recent survey and review by Posford Haskoning (in Between Blackhall and Hartlepool, the beaches are prep) describes the coastal processes occurring along sandy with particles of coal interspersed in the sand. the Durham Coast thus; “wave action northerly and Beaches are relatively wider and more gently sloping north westerly dominate the area with a general than to the north (Humphries, 1996). drift north to south. The area is considered a mixture of hard and soft coastline undergoing a transition Coastal Erosion. The coast north of Seaham harbour stage. Bays are largely stable with continuing comprises Magnesian limestone cliffs with a bevelled erosion whereas headlands are receding rapidly in layer of till backing a "clean" sand and shingle the short term but slowing down after ten to twenty beach. The till and boulder clay is prone to years once the area has reached background substantial slumping, and massive falls. Most of the conditions. The tipping of spoil has created a unique slumps are likely to be related to previous heavy situation on the Durham coastline with a heavy rainfall events and most will occur in the winter sediment loading creating a soft strip against the months when rainfall is heavier. Rain falling on the harder coastline. Erosion will continue but this soft immediate coastal hinterland is absorbed and seeps buffer zone is important in the areas evolution and towards the cliffs where the additional weight recovery”. overcomes the resistance to shearing and the slope fails.

Posford Duvivier (1993) predicted that the colliery waste would erode in two stages. An initial phase of rapid erosion (10-20 m per year) would remove the unconsolidated seaward edge. This phase has been occurring since the cessation of tipping and has been followed by a second, slower phase of erosion (0.5-2 m per year) of the main body of the colliery waste (the terrace), which has become consolidated since being tipped. They suggest that most of the waste (70-90%) will be transported and deposited offshore. The waste that now makes up the beaches between Seaham and Blackhall Rocks is thus a small Warren House Dene proportion of the waste that has been tipped. During storms this offshore sediment may be re- Geological Features. Differential erosion rates along suspended, transported onshore and deposited on faults in the limestone cliffs are responsible for the the beaches. indented coastline with its series of headlands and bays. Stacks, sea caves and arches occur frequently In two areas the waste has been removed artificially along this coastline. The best examples of these as part of the coastal regeneration programme occur at Blackhall Rocks. Cliffs are less pronounced under Turning the Tide. The colliery land-claim sites south of Blackhall as the beach widens into sandy at Easington and Horden had large cliff edge spoil stretches towards Hartlepool. Between Seaham and heaps. As part of the regeneration, these heaps

15 were removed and the waste spread over the sites, have been recently carried out (Gary Shears, pers capped and covered with soil to create public open comm). space at Easington and for habitat recreation at Horden. In total 1.3 million tonnes of waste was Mining Subsidence. Coastal dynamics may be removed and 80 ha of land restored to Magnesian complicated along the Durham coast by the limestone. possibility of local subsidence in response to the collapse of disused mine shafts at depth. The mining subsidence is likely to be non-uniform along the coast, reflecting the irregularity of workings that underlie the coastline. There have been suggestions that land subsidence due to mining activities might exceed that of projected sea-level rise due to climatic changes (Humphries, 2001). In this respect, the possibility of future mining subsidence may pose more of a threat to the long-term stability of the beaches, than sea-level rise. The British Geological Survey is presently investigating ground stability issues in the Magnesian limestone related to long- term consequences of coal-mine closure.

Future beach behaviour. The tipping of large Crimdon Beach - an area where sand accretion is high volumes of mine waste on to the beaches between Dawdon and Blackhall Rocks, and the subsequent Beach Profile Data. Durham County Council has cessation of tipping has created a series of different monitored (1990s-2001) nine beaches between artificial morphological elements along the Seaham and Crimdon as part of the Turning the Tide coastline, which are responding in different ways to project. Based on these data, it is possible to divide natural coastal processes. the Durham coast into two "erosion cells", which appear to be influenced by the location of the waste The end result is likely to be complete removal of all tipping points along the coast (Dawdon Colliery and the mine waste leading to re-exposure of the cliffs in Easington Colliery Beach), and the subsequent those particular bays. Exposure will take place first erosion and re-deposition of this waste. In the at Blast Beach and Easington Beach followed by later northern "cell", after cessation of tipping at Blast exposure at Hawthorn Hive and Horden Beach (up to Beach, the waste has eroded rapidly (17-20 m per 30 years). This supports the conclusion of Posford year) through natural processes. Much of the Duvivier (1993) that upon cessation of waste tipping sediment in this waste will have been transported the coast would recede to its original position of offshore. However, long-shore transport to the 1896, after 15-50 years. south has led to redeposition of some of the waste and formation of terraces in bays to the south such The mouth of Castle Eden Dene is of interest due to as Hawthorn Hive and Shippersea Bay. Although the numerous changes that have taken place here diminished through time, the Blast Beach source over time. In the past, high tides flooded the area, continues to supply Hawthorn Hive and hence the supporting active saltmarsh. More recently, terrace of waste is presently stable and not eroding. longshore transport has caused colliery waste to be In Shippersea Bay, the initial eroded material was transported and deposited at the mouth of the deposited on the beach to form the terrace. Dene, forming a terrace behind the beach. This However, because the bay is further down the raised the beach level and prevented further longshore transport system from Blast Beach, the inundation by tides causing the saltmarshes to diminished supply through time means the beach is disappear. However, with the cessation of waste now eroding. South of Shippersea Bay to the next tipping, the sea may eventually erode the waste and tipping point at Easington Beach the beaches appear allow saltmarsh to form again. to be relatively clean with respect to re-deposited mine waste (FutureCoast, 2002), indicating that Ecological impacts. In light of past pressure and use bypass of this material beyond Shippersea Bay is by coal spoil dumping; the physical and biological limited. South of Blackhall Rocks the beaches are nature of the coast has been altered significantly. relatively clean. According to a survey by the Environment Agency and Partners (Swaile,1998) the largest change has Accretion. The main area of accretion (build up of been the loss of rocky shore habitat in the inter-tidal sediment sand) occurs at Crimdon where the zones through dumping of waste onto foreshore prevailing north south long shore drift reverses. A and subsidence. The time for recovery to combination of sand and wind produces sand dunes background conditions is difficult to assess but such and at Crimdon and North Sands these are an changes are likely to have longer-term effects on the important local landscape feature as well as areas of areas biodiversity. Natural erosion and wave action high nature conservation value and local cultural has in the past been mainly responsible for removing importance. These dunes have suffered from illegal the spoil and continues to do so. Now that much of vehicle use e.g. motorcycles and unmanaged that original spoil has been removed cliff erosion is pedestrian access. This has led to a degraded dune again taking place exposing harder substrate for re- system. Some works to assist in stabilising the dunes colonisation by marine organisms. Erosion on cliffs

16 will also impact natural habitat perhaps causing some loss along the cliff areas.

Coastal defence. Shoreline Management Plans exist for the length of the coast (Posford Haskoning, (in prep); Scott Wilson, 2001). The City of Sunderland has a recent coastal defence strategy, the District of Easington has a coastal strategy and a more-broader Shoreline Management Plan is in preparation for the whole North East. There are sea defences around Seaham Harbour and recent additions to the south of the harbour have been built to protect a new link road. A concern is the protection of the rail line particularly at Hawthorn. There are expected to be hard defence added to the Sunderland southern relief road with a strategy to build the road and at a later date to build defences. Other considerations such as access to the cliffs and beaches are critical when dealing with issues caused by erosion.

Issue Positive consequences Negative consequences

Erosion A return to background environmental conditions Loss of access and safe access to cliffs Threats to urban structures such as rail Increased naturalness of ecology and landscape lines Cleaning of beaches Threats to existing coastal development Return to salt marsh

Existing spoil Protection of cliffs from erosion Unsightly Pollution impacts on local environment

Accretion Sand dune formation Provide areas for unmanaged access Ecological value

Subsidence Threat to beach stability

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

P1 Support regular program of monitoring of erosion rates and impacts P2 Support and develop programmes to manage sand dune systems P3 Support projects that improve and promote safe cliff and beach access P4 Provide advisory point for coastal development and planning applications to avoid development that may compromise the processes, naturalness and amenity value of the coastal cliffs and beaches P5 Influence Shoreline Management Plans and local Coastal Strategy Plans

17 CHAPTER FOUR Natural Profile

INTRODUCTION GEOLOGY

Character Durham’s geological strategy identifies Highlights the coastal area as “Dolomitic Permian Magnesian limestone capping and escarpment up to 200m high Magnesian limestone along the cliffs dipping towards the coast. The Permian rocks Ancient barrier reef include Basal Yellow sands and Breccia, overlain by Fossilised fish on pebbly beaches marl slate famous for its well preserved fossil fish Denes and gills along the coast such as Palaeoniscus. This is further overlain by Sea stacks and caves at Blackhall Rocks Magnesian limestone laid down with marls and Nationally important geology evaporite deposits within the Zechstein Sea. Much of Magnesian limestone grasslands the area is mantled by boulder clay or till, deposited Wooded denes and gills –Castle Eden Dene from the ice sheets which covered the area during Sand dunes at Crimdon Rocky shores at Seaham and Blackhall the last glacial period”. Near the coast, numerous Rich birdlife minor streams draining eastwards have cut valleys Rare invertebrates through into the underlying limestone to form the Rare orchids steep sided valleys common on the Durham Dynamic and recovering environment Coastline.

The most notable feature in the management area is in the Permian limestone marine barrier reef at the This section describes the main natural resources margin of the Zechstein Sea. The crest of this reef is exposed at Hawthorn Quarry and is a unique feature of the management area in terms of landscape in the UK for this geological exposure. character, habitats and wildlife. Although here flagship species have been highlighted this is not There is considerable geological interest in the coastal zone as it exhibits some of the finest to say that other species are not equally worthy of geological exposures of Magnesian limestone in the protection. UK. These are of national and international interest. There are four Geological Conservation Review sites locally; Seaham Harbour, Shippersea Bay, Warren House Gill and Blackhall Rocks and three County Characteristics Geological sites; Beacon Hill, Easington Raised beach Magnesian Limestone Plateau and Dene Holme. These sites, the best surface exposures of these rocks that are available, Undulating low upland plateau with demonstrate a variety of features, which provide incised denes cut into coastal edge on the evidence of the physical and environmental east conditions under which these rocks were formed some 250 million years ago. Of contemporary Clearly defined east facing escarpment, interest at Shippersea Bay, the bevelled upper dissected by minor streams, with remnant surface of the underlying Magnesian limestone broadleaved woodland, scrub and species shows a wave-cut platform on which rests the rich limestone on steeper slopes Easington raised beach, some 20 metres above the Varied coastal scenery of low cliffs, bays existing sea level. This raised beach pre-dates the last and headlands, rich in wildlife, although Ice Age. despoiled in places by former dumping of colliery waste on beaches and foreshores The only quarry site in the management area is Hawthorn Quarry cut into the Magnesian limestone. Strong urban development in the north, Although not presently in use there may be further dominated by Sunderland and by larger reclamation of the quarry that would lead to mining towns and villages. destruction of important grassland. Any construction along the coast is likely to impact the geological assets of the management area. Although only two sites of arable land now exist (at Horden and Ryhope) agricultural practice such as deep

18 ploughing should be avoided. Pressure on local geology from visitors either through "fossil hunting" and excessive hammering at rocks or through unauthorised activities such as motorbike scrambling and vandalism require controls to minimise any impact on the areas unique geology.

A19 DURHAM HERITAGE COAST GEOLOGICAL SITES

Seaham Key County Dawdon Geological Sites

Murton Geological A182 Conservation Review Site

Beacon Hill Shippersea Bay

A182

Easington Fox Holes

A1086

Geological Features A19

Shotton Horden North Colliery Peterlee Dene Holme Sea

Blackhall Colliery

Blackhall Rocks A181 Wingate

A1086

A19

A179 N

Geology

Issue Negative consequences

Quarry reclamation and construction Reduced habitat and habitat destruction

Agricultural practice Impact of deep ploughing-damage to rock

User patterns Uncontrolled and unregulated use leading to damaging activities

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

G1 Support regular assessment and review of important geological sites in consultation with appropriate bodies G2 Promote the creation of new geological sites along the coast G3 Promote the integration of geological considerations into planning at the coast G4 Promote the use of coastal geological and geomorphological sites for teaching, research, interpretation and tourism G5 Actively promote and engage with local groups to encourage local study G6 Ensure SSSI controls are enforced and support strengthening of controls G7 Support enforcement and strengthen penalties for misuse and unauthorised activities on geologically important sites

19 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER DURHAM HERITAGE COAST Ryhope PROTECTED AREAS Durham County Councils landscape strategy is based Colliery

on the County Landscape assessments. It identifies Key A1018 key issues affecting the landscape of the county and National Nature Reserves objectives for addressing them. The Heritage Coast Sites of Special Scientific importance lies within the "East Durham Limestone Plateau". A19 County Wildlife Sites Part of the Heritage Coast along with wooded Special Areas of Conservation landscapes around Castle Eden Dene are Areas of Existing High Landscape Value in local plans. Other nature Seaham designations are listed in the table and shown on Aspirant Areas the map. The spatial strategy recommends conservation and restoration for the area. Murton

Heritage Coast status is a 'landscape' definition A19 protecting the country’s finest coastal landscapes. The essential and elemental beauty, as enhanced by man’s activities, is the very quality that we are A182 North seeking to protect. The complex mosaic that creates Haswell Easington Sea this landscape is derived from the underlying Colliery geology, along the Durham Coast this is Magnesian limestone. The coast sits within the East Durham B1283 A1086 Limestone Plateau Character Area as classified by the Peterlee

Countryside Commission. Shotton 19 Colliery A The coast itself is a varied coastline of shallow bays and headlands. Much of the coastline is made up of Wheatley Blackhall cliffs, 20 to 30 metres in height, of pale, creamy Hill Colliery A181 A1086 Blackhall Rocks yellow Permian limestones crested by steep slopes of Wingate boulder clay, with occasional caves and stacks. The limestones exposed in the cliffs vary in character and N include soft dolomites, thinly bedded or ''brecciated" by the collapse of underlying strata, oolithic and concretionary limestones, and fossil- Nature Designations rich reef limestones, contributing to an individual character along the shore. The landscape is exposed and visually open with extensive panoramic views out across the North Sea, The foreshore is made up of beaches of sand and and dramatic scenic views along the coastline. It has shingle or cobbles with occasional wave-cut rock natural and elemental qualities, coming from its platforms. Beaches are despoiled in places by the geology, its semi-natural vegetation and the past tipping of colliery wastes, now being gradually influences of the sea, but has a despoiled or urban eroded by the sea. Shallow denes cut down into the fringe quality in places. cliff-top boulder clay and the mouths of larger inland denes breach the limestone cliffs. In the This landscape extends north to the very edge of the south, low sand dunes bound by marram grass and port of Sunderland, increasingly hemmed in by the sea couch mark the transition with the lower lying settlements of Ryhope, Grangetown and Hendon. coastal plain. BIODIVERSITY Above the cliffs lie relatively flat or gently rolling open arable fields and rough coastal grasslands. The biodivesity of the coast (key habitats and Patches of wind-shaped blackthorn scrub with threatened species) are described here by species occasional stunted hazel and juniper are found on and habitat. clay slopes and cliff top denes. Ancient woodlands of ash, oak, whych elm and yew lie in the deeper and Despite past environmental assault, and due to more sheltered dene-mouths. protection and habitat reversion programmes, habitat and species are recovering, The Heritage The coastline has no natural anchorages and is Coast definition provides an opportunity to allow relatively undeveloped. There is a single working complete recovery for habitat recreation and species port at Seaham, a major landscape feature, which and habitat management. There is a rich mosaic of also has a developed sea front, and there are important wildlife habitats in the management area caravan sites in the south at Crimdon. It is bordered that reflect coastal processes occurring on this inland by the coastal railway line and by the edges dynamic landscape. of mining settlements The Durham Heritage Coast holds within its Allotment gardens and industrial estates spill onto boundaries the following local, national and the coast in places. There are areas of recently international designations (see map); Sites of Nature reclaimed colliery land, restored to open grassland.

20 Conservation Interest (SNCI), Local Nature Reserves (LNR), Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and National Nature Reserves (NNR). On a European level (under the Habitats Directive) there is a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and (under the Birds Directive) a Special Protection Area (SPA); in addition the Heritage Coast lies adjacent to the Teesmouth and Cleveland European Marine Site (EMS). The SPA also has the international designation of a Ramsar site.

This section is largely taken from the Durham Biodiversity Action Plan produced by The Durham Biodiversity Partnership (Pratt, 2000). Species included in this section are those identified as Durham Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) species Castle Eden Dene - Walk through English Nature wildlife reserve. deserving special mention or used as flagship species and are included here for completeness. Individual Magnesian limestone grasslands. The unique plans must not be considered in isolation from calcareous grassland scattering the Heritage Coast coastal processes and impacts. Issues and threats are occurs on outcrops of Magnesian limestone laid identified, policies are considered and are consistent down 255 million years ago in the Permian period. It with recommendations of the Coastal and Marine is a species rich habitat and important biologically BAP (Street, 2002). for it’s plants and invertebrates. Many species are on or near the limit of their range in Britain on these HABITATS OF THE HERITAGE COAST habitats and many are scarce or uncommon. This type of grassland has a unique and varied assemblage of wildlife with thirteen nationally ON THE COAST scarce plants and eighty four nationally scarce invertebrate species depending on it. Nationally this Woodland and Coastal Gills. Whilst there is no type of grassland is found between Nottinghamshire commercial forestry activity within the Heritage and Tyne and Wear. A significant proportion of the Coast management area, the woodland that does national extent of Magnesian limestone is found in exist at the mouths of the denes has some of the Durham and southern Tyne and Wear covering the most natural woodland in the North East of England. extent of the Heritage Coast. It is one of the UKs Cut during the last ice age 10,000 years ago, the most restricted habitats and appears within the EU Habitat Directive. There is 225 hectares of small wooded valleys following the course of Magnesian limestone grassland within the Heritage streams through the cliffs and onto the beaches are Coast defined area. unique to Durham’s coast and support a wide range of wildlife. Sites of particular interest are at; Habitat management in terms of grazing and bracken control are issues for the conservation of Ryhope Dene, BlueHouse Gill, Cross Gill, Castle Eden grassland wildlife. Grasslands suffer disturbance Denemouth, Limekiln Gill, Hawthorn Dene Mouth, from users that compromise conservation efforts. Warren House Gill, Whitesides Gill and Blackhills The impacts of coastal erosion and subsequent loss Dene. The main threats to this coastal habitat occur of habitat and species will become increasingly through vandalism and general misuse of these important in habitat protection and management areas. Disturbance to habitat and wildlife programmes. Any development negatively impacting compromises the conservation value of these these habitats would be inappropriate and inconsistent with Heritage Coast objectives. important habitats.

Issue Negative consequences

User pressure Disturbance and degradation of habitat Anti social misuse of area

Grazing and bracken encroachment (grasslands) Grazing reduces natural grassland, bracken dominates natural grassland species Future urban development Loss of habitat and species

Rare and vulnerable species disturbance Biodiversity loss Coastal erosion Loss of habitat and species

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

H1 Develop and implement a regional programme to enhance and protect habitats H2 Influence local planning control processes to prevent and reduce threat to coastal development H3 Promote the value of habitats to wider audience H4 Support programmes to monitor streams flowing into management area

21 marine and coastal wildlife. Not only do they support rich communities of invertebrates and plants, but are important as food for birds and mammals. They also provide material for stabilizing the foreshore for sand dune formation. The strandline communities along the coast are sporadic and sparse. Crimdon presents a suitable habitat and has a narrow strandline. Strandline habitats generally extend from the base of cliffs to the high water mark. These communities hold maritime vegetation that is making a comeback on the coast following clean up activities. We may expect their increasing development in future years.

Rocky shores. Rocky shores are complex habitats Walking on Crimdons dunes with a range of environmental variables influencing them. Rocky shores within the Heritage Coast are ON THE BEACH poor in terms of quality of habitat compared to other areas in the north east. There are few species Coastal sand dune. Coastal sand dunes are a scarce present as a result of the colliery spoil dumped in the and localized habitat in Durham, covering 11.5 ha area. For example numbers of algal species recorded (0.04% of the national area of dune). Crimdon Sands at between ten to sixty species, elsewhere in the UK represents the only dune system the Durham an average of ninety is expected. South of Seaham Heritage Coast area has to offer. It displays typical the most valuable area in terms of biodiversity is at dune zonation and plant succession. The dune area Blackhall Rocks which have statutory protection exists within the Durham Coast Site of Special down to low water mark either because of their Scientific Interest (SSSI) and is part of the significance to nature conservation and/or their Northumbria Coast Special Protected Area (SPA), geology. Rocky shores suffer from user pressure Durham National Nature Reserve and within a causing habitat disturbance and species depletion Special Area of Conservation (SAC). Potential exists with shore species commonly being taken. Pollution to increase dune area and the quality of habitat is a particular threat as the nature of the habitat through active management. The value to wildlife is concentrates pollutants such as oil. The ever present significant in terms of their plant and invertebrate issue of litter threatens wildlife using these habitats. life. Hartlepool has a more established dune system and extension of the Heritage Coast boundary would aid a more consistent management policy and practice for sand dune systems along this coast.

In addition a Little Tern colony took up residence in 1995 at Crimdon and breeds on the beach over the summer.

There are particular areas of conflict between nature conservation interests, recreation pressures and economic activity at Crimdon. The popular use of the area creates problems with the attractive and ecologically rich dune system. Pedestrian and unauthorized vehicular traffic accelerate the erosion of the dunes, degrading the habitat. Any plans to expand existing development such as Pony World or Rocky shores the Caravan Park should be monitored and their potential impact on dune development assessed. The presence of a nationally important breeding Little Tern colony nesting on the beach coincides with the principal access to the strand. The high use of the area creates problems of littering and poses a hazard to users and local wildlife. Developing a local sand dune action plan in partnership with local users is a priority in the longer term management of this important area.

Strandline communities develop on flat sandy beaches becoming more permanent in sheltered bays and estuaries. The best strandlines occur on beaches backed by sand dunes and other semi natural habitats such as at Crimdon. They provide sheltered moist conditions and a valuable habitat for

22 Issue Negative consequences

User pressure Uncontrolled access leads to destablisation of dunes Habitat degradation Species at risk

Coastal development expansion Loss of dune habitat Limits to dune development

Litter Unhygenic and unsightly for users Threatens species

Pollution Threatens habitat Threatens species Unsightliness for users

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

H1 Develop and support programmes to enhance and protect habitat H7 Influence development plans to prevent and reduce threats to beach habitats H8 Develop, promote and support projects that reduce littering and pollution H9 Encourage ecologically sensitive clean up policies H10 Provide wider public appreciation and understanding of habitats H11 Encourage and support research by local Colleges and Universities H12 Promote studies to assess and monitor impact of bait digging

23 OFFSHORE

Sub littoral sand and gravel. This habitat occurs below the limit of low tide and contains a range of particle sizes from sand to gravel. These are the most common habitats below low tide in the UK with a high conservation importance supporting a variety of marine invertebrates and providing crucial nursery areas for commercial fish e.g. flat fish and Seaweed on Blackhall’s shores bass, plaice and sand eels and an important source of food for seabirds. Where sediment is muddier and more mixed, habitats support larger numbers of Kelp Beds. Kelps make up the UKs largest native species such as lug worms and bivalves. These algae. Two species have been recorded on the habitats are found further offshore than sandy Durham Heritage Coast; tangle (Laminaria digitata) sediments and closer inshore at Seaham. and rough kelp (Laminaria hyporborea). They will thrive given the correct conditions of clear clean The littoral zone is of particular interest due to the water and the availabilitiy of rocks as holdfasts. rapid change currently occurring along the Durham There are no extensive kelp beds in the management Coast. The evolution of the despoiled section of the area but some can be seen exposed at low tide such coast following the Turning the Tide clean up has as at Featherbed rocks at Seaham. As kelp beds already started with a shift from sediment to rocky become more established kelp forests may occur shore in some areas. A comprehensive baseline along the coast. Kelp beds can provide a rich habitat survey was produced in 1998 by the Environment for coastal and marine communities and are Agency. This has recently been repeated in 2003 as especially significant in providing nursery areas for part of a longer term monitoring programme. invertebrates and fish and are therefore important in maintaining healthy fish stocks. Seaham is the There have been no comprehensive assessments only place on the Heritage Coast where water is below low water, this limits our understanding of sufficiently clear and rocks are unsilted to allow the impacts away from the shoreline and the growth of kelp. It is likely that kelp communities will recovery of the area. It is likely that pollution and alter and recover as spoil and silt clears. The main the effects of coastal construction as well as existing threat to kelp is the reduction in available light colliery spoil will continue to impact the habitat and through silted water and suspended sediments. species assemblages of the sublittoral. Wrecks and Reefs. There are a number of wrecks off the coast which act as artificial reefs attracting marine life around 300 possible wrecks have been identified (Durham University, 1998). These are likely to provide opportunities for a range of habitats and species and have implications for further recovery of the area.

Issue Negative consequences

Seabed disturbance Habitat damage and availability reduced

Removal of predators, species Ecological disturbance

Pollution Siltation, impacts on habitat and species

Coastal construction Siltation - reduced light levels for kelp

Snagging of gear Fishing conflicts

Locatable concentrated fish Wrecks act to attract fish from other areas, consequential overfishing concerns

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

H1 Develop and support programs to enhance and protect habitat H13 Promote investigations of habitats and species offshore H14 Ensure Partnership has an established advisory and consultation role in offshore mineral developments H15 Promote cleaner disposal practices at sea (Law of the Sea and OSPAR) H16 Promote greater public understanding of offshore areas H17 Promote concept of protection to extend below low water mark H18 Promote local Environment Agency plans for local communities in river catchments H19 Promote Partnership working to ensure treatment of mine water impacts (environmentaly, economically and visually) are minimised. H20 Promote and support EU Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC) and necessary provisions to comply (by 2015)

24 considered as one of Britain's rarest seabirds. There has been a long-term decline in populations since the 1970s. Comprising 13% of European populations the local population nest between the Durham and Cleveland coast at Crimdon. This population was threatened due to egg theft in 1999 and lack of returns of breeding birds in 2000. By 2001 birds returned to Crimdon Sands with twenty nesting pair and thirty fledged young. The colony is currently wardened through a scheme run by INCA. Crimdon Sands is a site of national significance and in 1998 was the most successful site in the UK for breeding Rich coastal flora carpets the cliffs in the summer success (INCA pers comm.). The Little Tern further feeds inshore at Blackhall and south to Redcar in late April to August. Threats to this particular species are SPECIES OF THE HERITAGE COAST through predation by local wildlife such as gulls, kestrels and foxes, by egg collecting and from The management area is home to rich and varied general disturbance during nesting. The nest site is floral and faunal assemblages. The cessation of further subject to flooding at high spring tides. dumping and resultant improvements to water Protection of such an important and rare population quality had led to increases in numbers of seabirds is further hampered by a lack of resources and particularly diving ducks using inshore waters (Tony requires active management and further support. Armstrong pers comm.)There are also significant gatherings of crested great scoter seasonally here. Both species are small fish and shellfish feeders, an indication of improving coastal conditions. The area is also of significance for nationally and internationally important species. This section provides some background on species identified in the Durham Biodiversity Action Plan and the information is taken from this document. The DBAP (Pratt, 2002) identifies species under threat. It should be bourne in mind that this does not mean that species not mentioned are well protected or are undeserving of similar levels of attention and protection. It is more a reflection of the availability of appropriate information and the level of detail required for this document. Using particular species, Little Tern (INCA) such as those mentioned here as flagship species, is beneficial in protecting other species using these Sanderling (Calidris alba). A small wader, the habitats. sanderling is a winter passage visitor and feeds on small invertebrates on the tide line. The recent BIRDS increases in numbers recorded near Crimdon and Horden may be associated with the cessation of Within the coastal zone there are nationally tipping or increased disturbance on the Tees. The important sites for breeding little tern (Sterna area around the mouth of the Tees from Blackhall albifrons) and wintering purple sandpiper (Caladris rocks to Saltburn is of national importance for marina) that feed on the foreshore. Sanderling wintering and passage sanderlings. Prime sites along (Calidris alba), turnstone and knot are also present, the Heritage Coast are at Crimdon and Hartlepool. feeding and roosting during the winter. Those areas Water pollution will directly impact the availability of the coast within the Durham Coast National of prey for the species. Nature Reserve (NNR) are served by the NNR Management Plan. The coast is further a candidate site under the Birds Directive. Birds provide a good indication of the status and health of the environment and are further critical for their importance as flagship species and for the development of accessible nature tourism in the management area. The coasts wooded denes and gills are especially important in providing cover for coastal migrant birds to rest and feed.

The Little Tern (Sterna albifrons) is the smallest of five species of breeding tern in the UK. A summer visitor, it nests on shingle and gravel shores and feeds on crustaceans and small fish. There are around 2,400 breeding pairs in the UK and it is

25 Purple sandpiper

Sandwich Terns near Beacon Hill

Purple sandpiper (Caladris marina). This wading birds occurs in seaweed dominated coastlines. They feed primarily on molluscs and amphipods. In the UK there are 21,000 purple sandpipers overwintering in October-November, breeding only in Scotland. At the coast they are in nationally important numbers. With estimates of around 160 over wintering in the area. The species are recorded at rocky outcrops South of Hendon and in Easington at Blackhall. The main foraging sites are; Ryhope, Seaham, Salterfen and Featherbed Rocks. There is a major roost site at Seaham docks. Prime sites exist outside the management area at Hartlepool and Teesmouth. The populations of this species are at risk from disturbance and through reduction in their food supplies. Water quality also has a direct impact effecting availability of prey species.

Issue Negative consequences

User pressure (people and dogs) Disturbance of birds whilst feeding, nesting and of habitat

Natural predation Depletion of eggs - population risk

Egg collecting Increasing mortality above natural level

Coastal pollution Impacts on prey species

Competition with shellfish collection Reduction in prey species

Flooding of tern nests Mortality increases

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

S1 Support and promote management and research of population by appropriate bodies S2 Promote existing legislation to protect species and sites (high priority is little tern). S3 Support education and interpretation programmes for general public to encourage wide appreciation S4 Promote and support research into fisheries impacts on local bird life S5 Support monitoring and improvements in coastal water quality

26 INVERTEBRATES

Cistus forester moth (Adscita geryon) over-winter as larvae flying in late June and early July. Larval food is common rockrose. The species are at the northern edge of their range in UK in the management area. Most recent data suggests their distribution is localized and limited. Number of populations and their size is unknown. They are found in the Heritage Coast on Magnesian limestone grassland where common rockrose grows (Helianthemum nummularium), between Crimdon Dene and Hawthorn Hive.

Northern brown argus butterfly (Aricia artaxerxes) is a nationally scarce species. This species has declined The rare Northern brown argus butterfly (Aricia artaxerxes) in northern England and no longer occurs in courtesy English Nature Northumberland. Over twenty colonies occur on the coast between Dawdon and Hart Warren (Ellis, 2002) including several previously unknown. The majority of colonies are small and several are isolated from other sites. The butterfly is the most characteristic species of Magnesian limestone grassland.

For both species the threat of habitat loss (through vandalism for example) or change of habitat e.g. through grazing, causes the main risks to their survival. The long term isolation of the population through microhabital fragmentation (Terry Coult, Pers Comm) is another threat and in the case of the cistus forester moth, lack of knowledge of species and ecology makes them a fragile resource

Issue Negative consequences

Grazing, vandalism Habitat and species loss

Habitat fragmentation Isolation of populations

Lack of current information on population Difficulties in management and ecology

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

S1 Support and promote management and research of key wildlife species populations by appropriate bodies S2 Promote existing legislation to protect species and sites S3 Support education and interpretation programmes for general public to encourage wide appreciation S6 Support appropriate management regimes that protect and enhance invertebrate populations S7 Promote and support management that reduces population isolation and creates new habitat patches S8 Promote research to assess numbers and distribution of key wildlife species

27 Sunderland at Seaham and Crimdon, Easington and Roker. In Spring 2004 three harbour porposes were washed up on Heritage Coast beaches. All had evidence of being caught in fishing operations.

Atlantic white sided dolphin (Lagenorhyncus acutus) and White beaked dolphin (L.albirostris). Both species are recorded off the north east coast. There are increased numbers in the summer months which probably coincides with the movement of fish concentrations. Both species are sighted not infrequently offshore by local fishers and boat users.

Minke Whale (Balaenoptera acustorostrata). The Resting terns minke whale is the smallest of the baleen whales and a protected species. They appear to move MARINE MAMMALS offshore in autumn and feed on fish, squid and other plankton, calving in mid winter. Minke whales Several important species of marine mammals have are sighted in small numbers off the north east coast been sighted off Durham's coast. Marine mammals, between June and September and have been classed like birds may be able to provide indications of the as "fairly common" off the Durham coast. There health of the marine environment. Like birds they have also been periodic strandings recorded at also provide a valuable flagship species for residents Blackhall and Blackhall Rocks. and visitors to an area. Although information and anecdotal evidence confirms that marine mammals Threats to marine mammals come in many forms, are regular users of the Durham coast, data is limited some obvious such as the accidental ingestion of and future surveys to assess marine mammal plastic and other litter debris and entanglement and distribution is required. some not so obvious such as the impact of seismic testing and increased noise pollution on their Harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena). Harbour communications systems. General pollution and porpoises are a globally threatened species and are habitat degradation pose increasing threats as do listed on the IUCN red data list. There is no the influence of fishing through entanglement and comprehensive assessment of numbers and world pressure on prey stocks. population status, but they are thought to have been in decline since the 1940s in UK waters. Information about distribution along the Heritage Coast comes from offshore sightings and strandings. There is assumed to be a regular occurrence of the species along the coast but it is difficult to assess abundance without more research into population status and numbers in the area. Since 1992 the Environment Agency have reported 12 strandings of harbour porpoise on the beaches of Durham and

Issue Negative consequences

Litter Ingestion and entanglement

Pollution Habitat degradation and biological impacts on health

Seismic/noise Physical and behavioural impacts

Disturbance As above

Fishing Resource competition

Entanglement

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

S2 Promote existing legislation to protect species and sites S3 Support education and interpretation programmes for general public to encourage wide appreciation S9 Promote and encourage research on marine mammals use patterns off the Heritage Coast S10 Develop wider network to assess movements in a UK/Worldwide context S12 Support policies that aim to reduce the drift net fishery and fisheries competition S13 Promote litter and pollution reduction programmes

28 FISH Commercial fish species. There are species those exploited for food, the production of fish-meal or as Basking shark (Cetorhinus maximus). The Basking animal feed or fertilizer for agriculture. They are shark is the largest fish species to occur in UK waters, generally the most heavily exploited stocks such as growing up to 11m in length. It is also the second cod, haddock, hake and plaice (North East Fisheries largest shark and fish in the world. Harmless to Plan, 2002). In the Heritage Coast area herring and humans, this filter feeder lives in open waters hake are caught in small numbers largely due to the migrating towards the shore in the summer months decline in stocks (Seaham Sea Angling Club pers where they are sometimes sighted at the surface. comm.). There are major summer and autumn The species is considered to be under threat. spawning grounds off the north-east coastline. Populations are small with low reproductive rates Concerns regarding over-fishing, efficiency of gear, and slow maturation. Along the Durham Heritage impacts on habitat, the waste of discards and by- Coast there have been frequent sightings during the catch are universal themes. Discarded or lost gear summer and several strandings and catches. Their from both commercial and recreational fishers result populations are at risk through exploitation, in "ghost fishing" where gear such as lines and pots competition for prey and habitat degradation. continue to capture species that remain un- harvested.

Edible crab

Urchin Starfish

Issue Negative consequences

Intensity and efficiency Over exploitation, reduction in population and ecological disturbance Use of gear Habitat destruction and disturbance

By-catch and discards Over exploitation, uncontrolled, wasteful, increases mortality "invisible" fishing mortality "Ghost" fishing through lost or discarded nets Over exploitation, uncontrolled, wasteful, increases mortality "invisible" fishing mortality

Competition for resources Reduction in prey species availability for whale shark Unregulated, population decline Illegal harvest Threatens population

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

S3 Support education and interpretation programmes for general public to encourage wide appreciation S15 Support appropriate sustainable fishery controls and practices S17 Promote consideration of impacts of activities on habitat and populations

29 SIGNIFICANT FLORA

The Durham Heritage Coast is well known for its rich botanical life, especially it’s assemblages of orchids. The rarest of these is the green winged orchid. Threats to the species are relevant to other orchid and plant life in the management area.

Green winged orchid (Orchis morio). The green winged orchid appears between March and July. It has a wide ecological tolerance but has suffered declines due to changes in agriculture. It grows in old meadows, unimproved grassland and pastures on base rich soil. Durham Heritage Coast represents the species northerly limit for the UK. The species was last recorded in the area at Blackhall in 1954. The rich pastures at this site were subsequently ploughed up and there are no more recent records for Durham. With reintroduction programmes the main risks to the species survival are loss of habitat and lack of management.

Rich floral species are found on the coast

Issue Negative consequences

Loss of habitat Reduction in suitable habitat

Lack of management e.g. Encroachment of scrub reduces available habitat

Lack of management consistancy Compromises development and protection

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

S3 Support education and interpretation programmes for general public to encourage wide appreciation S18 Support programmes of re-introduction for identified species to suitable areas S19 Support protection,management and consistancy of approach to grassland management

30 CHAPTER FIVE Historical & Cultural Profile

JARROW St Paul’s HOLY ISLAND A19 LINDISFARNE Highlights ST MARY’S

Untapped archaeological resource Seaham Evidence of Roman use at Seaham and Beacon Hill ST ANDREW’S Early Christian sites and churches Dalton-le-Dale Early industrial history with limekilns at Murton A182 Seaham Harbour Coal mining history preserved at Easington Colliery War pillboxes and trench defences A182 A working harbour at Seaham Easington ST MARY’S B1283

A1086

INTRODUCTION A19 Shotton North Durham Heritage Coast has a unique and Colliery Peterlee Sea chequered history that has shaped the cultural DURHAM CITY Durham Cathedral identity of local communities. The rich cultural B1281 A181 ST JAMES’ heritage available in the management area Wingate Castle Eden presents a unique vehicle to promote the Durham

Heritage Coast. Using the areas cultural heritage A1086 as a marketing tool for the coastal zone has A19 BISHOP AUCKLAND fostered a sense of interest and pride in local Escomb Priory A179 history and will continue to strengthen N community identity and cohesion in the future. An assessment of the archaeological resources of the management area was conducted in 1998 by Early Christian sites and churches Durham University and the following section is taken from this report. Evidence indicates that Durham Coast is the only location within County the Durham Heritage Coast was an especially Durham to yield a large collection of flints (Haselgrove et al, 1988). Significant Mesolithic finds significant centre of activity and occupation include a hearth identified at Crimdon Dene. Such during the Mesolithic, Neolithic and Roman finds indicate substantial exploitation activity at this periods. time and are concentrated near sheltered denes. Although there is little evidence of Bronze Age "...The history and archaeology of the coast in (2000 B.C –750 A.D) activity within the Heritage Durham is distinctive, and continual reference to Coast, there is speculation that Bronze Age burial historical themes and motifs from outside sites may exist. An assessment in 1998 by the University of Durham found considerable evidence ……is not necessary" for the Bronze age in the coastal hinterlands with many finds of food vessels between Seaham and Sunderland and burial barrows between Seaham Early History The Durham Coast has been populated and Peterlee. Scattered flints remain in the coastal throughout prehistoric and Roman periods. A centre zone but there is no evidence of settlements. There of activity during the Mesolithic (8000 B.C – 4000 is evidence that Bronze Age people used imported B.C) and Neolithic (4000-2000 B.C) periods. There flints and this may explain the lower evidence of use have been finds of flint tools and weapons in the in the coastal strip during these times. area.

31 There has been no evidence of the Iron Age (750 depth of coal seams. Vane Tempest, Dawdon and A.D-75 A.D) uncovered in the area. How much this is Blackhall pits were opened in the 20th century. The due to lack of archaeological study or historic use mines used considerable areas of land, with their patterns is unclear. Many sites of Iron Age date are spoil heaps spilling on to the beaches. Settlements known in the region, including sites located on the grew rapidly alongside the collieries, and these coast, indicating the likely occurrence of similar sites villages now provide the backdrop to today's coast. in the management area. Seaham town and harbour was built specifically for the coal industry and the subsequent rise in Roman Evidence of Roman presence is less well maritime traffic in the post medieval and modern established. It is likely that there was settlement at period is reflected in the large number of shipwrecks Seaham due to the many finds there. It has been off the coast. The rapid closure of the collieries in the suggested that Seaham or Beacon Hill to the south early 1990's had a dramatic and adverse impact on may be the site of a Roman signal station. Given the the socio-economic status of the area. The landscape large amount of Roman activity elsewhere in the also changed 'overnight' with the removal of the region it is likely that evidence of settlement may be colliery buildings. recovered in future. County Durham is well known for its Roman forts and settlements. The military and civilian sites at the coast and its hinterland have yet to be found. There are suggestions that the coast may have been used as an outpost system serving Hadrians Wall (Dobson, 1970). At Blackhills Gill, Horden a cluster of Roman finds is recorded suggesting a station or other kind of settlement. Roman pottery shards been found to the north of Ryhope dene.

Medieval There are few remnants of the pagan English period, except for some notable early sites such as the pagan cemetery at Easington from around 6-8th century (Hamerow & Pickin 1995). There have been recent excavations at Seaham uncovering timber and burials indicative of monastic origins. Locally, the churches at Easington St Mary's, Seaham St Mary’s and Castle Eden St James, and their associated settlements show evidence of early medieval activity. Castle Eden is mentioned in 10th century texts as having secular settlement. Many local place names such as Yoden and Easington have Remnants of recent industrial history are still found on beaches a strong Old English origin. War history The North East Coast was vulnerable Fragments of the late medieval landscape survive in during two World Wars. As a result many defensive the form of ridge and furrow earthworks such as at structures remain. In addition to pillboxes and tank Beacon Hill, a result of the sloughing practice used traps, defensive trench systems survive at Crimdon at the time. The most notable exists at Station Dene, Blackhall Rocks and Castle Eden Dene. There Cottages in Horden. Modern industrial and are impressive trenches at Hawthorn Hive Point. In agricultural development has removed a great deal addition twelve surviving pillboxes have been of these landscape features. identified overlooking access points such as the mouth of the denes. Tank traps also survive across Recent Industrial past The two limekilns in three of the denes e.g. Crimdon Dene. Hawthorn Dene illustrate early industrial development of the area. Many more once existed, The Second World War led to creative solutions to place names such as Limekilns Gill appear at both help defend the settlements at Seaham Harbour, Horden and Crimdon. The lime produced was used Ryhope Colliery and Sunderland. A search light for agricultural improvement as well as for the battery was positioned east of Ryhope, this along production of mortar. Lime production grew with with a pill box appear to have been lost to erosion. industrialisation and provided material for the large Bombing decoys were located north of Seaham to iron and chemical works at Dawdon. Hawthorn divert attack away from Seaham and Ryhope. North quarry expanded in the 19th and 20th centuries. of Seaham, these consisted of trenches filled with Smaller scale industry appears at Hawthorn Mill. tyres, which could be burned (ASUD 1998a, 8). These early industrial heritage sites are a substantial educational resource for the Heritage Coast. Maritime History. English Heritage’s review of coastal heritage (1996) emphasized the importance Coal had by far the biggest impact on the whole of the intertidal zone as an archeological resource area. Its rise and subsequent domination of and recognized the importance of submerged and Durham’s coastline began in the 1830's. The earliest eroded landscapes in interpreting the coastal collieries; Easington and Seaham opened in the 19th resource. century and pioneered techniques to deal with the

32 No programme of inter tidal archaeological survey has been conducted on the Durham Coast, although it was included in an assessment of maritime heritage (Burgess, 1994). The existence of Seaham harbour is a direct result of the exploitation of coal. Marine transport rapidly increased as a result, broadening the local and regional economy. There are some 300 possible ship wreck sites recorded off the coast, either as net snags or documentary records, with only an accurate location for twelve of these (Durham University, 1988).

Although some of these sites are protected most are not and remain awaiting detailed excavation and St Mary’s, Seaham description. Risks to such sites are through coastal Christian history is rich in the Heritage Coast development and agricultural practice that may occur in the remaining two areas of arable land on the coast. User pressure in the form of vandalism and in the case of underwater site salvage may cause loss and damage of important sites. Environmental impacts from coastal erosion may lose finds before their significance to the area is assessed. Further low appreciation and information for the general public and planning authorities may jeopardise important sites.

Issue Negative consequences

Coastal development Loss of significant sites and artefacts

Agricultural practice Damage to archaeological finds

Misuse and removal of structures/finds Loss of historical and cultural heritage

Erosion Loss of sites/finds

Low appreciation by general public Possible damage

Lack of interpretation Low levels of support

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

C1 Recognise and promote a coordinated approach to archaeological recording at the coast C2 Support projects that protect, enhance and promote the historical and cultural importance of the area C3 Encourage the monitoring of condition of sites C4 Promote the preservation, interpretation and recording of selective disused structures C5 Promote monitoring of erosion scars, particularly in sensitive archaeological areas C6 Promote the restoration and protection of surviving industrial and war structures for interpretation C7 Encourage voluntary agreements for conservation of sites C8 Promote conservation of the history of cultural activities C9 Promote recording and protection of Maritime archaeology

33 CHAPTER SIX Socio-economic Background

INTRODUCTION

Understanding the social and economic needs many to be covered in this document. Examples such and issues of coastal communities provides a as Back on the Map to the north of Heritage Coast in Hendon and is a community led regeneration project strong framework with which to address to address such issues as community security, management needs in the area without housing and environment, employment and compromising natural resource protection and enterprise, life long learning, health and neighbourhood services. Projects such as Easington sustainability. This section aims to give an Colliery and Horden Pathfinder and Street Wardens overview of the social and economic situation at in Easington are also community led. There are the coast and the community’s perspectives of Regeneration partnerships and Development Trusts in coastal villages and the Durham Heritage Coast important issues. In addition the Heritage Coast will support and work alongside such projects where has carried out several community participatory possible and appropriate to develop improving exercises to identify local needs in relation to the standards in the management area and maintain partnership working. management area. There are two main geographic areas to consider; The District of Easington which accounts for the majority of the Durham Heritage Coast in terms of area and population, A19 DURHAM HERITAGE COAST and that of South Sunderland marking the MAIN COASTAL SETTLEMENTS northern boundary of the management area. Seaham

History. The Easington area has traditionally relied Dawdon on heavy industry such as coal. The closure of the Murton mines in the early 1970s caused widespread A182 unemployment and social deprivation. Poor transport affects accessibility to work, education, sport and other amenities. Further low educational attainment and low capabilities within the A182 communities exacerbate the problems of Easington employment. Sunderland communities have A1086 traditionally relied on heavy industries such as ship-

building, heavy engineering and dock services. Like A19 Easington, the closure of shipyards and dock North companies in the 1980s caused widespread Shotton Horden Colliery unemployment and social deprivation in coastal Peterlee Sea Blackhall communities. Both Easington and Sunderland have Colliery suffered a population decline of 5% from 1991- Blackhall 2001. County Durham by contrast has experienced a Rocks A181 population reduction of only 1%. Wards in the Wingate management area are ranked in the poorest 20% for income in the UK and the lowest 10% for employment (District of Easington, 2000). A1086 Settlements in the management area have a lower A19 than average percentage of population in the 20-30 age group, and a higher than average in the 60-80 A179 age groups. Younger people migrating from the N area leave an increasingly elderly population which is likely to put increasing strain on existing social resources. Centres of main settlement There a large number of initiatives occurring in the area addressing many of these social issues, too

34 BACKGROUND TO SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC Ethnicity and religion A predominantly white and CONDITIONS Christian population ranks the area 6th regionally and 16th nationally for white and 1st regionally and The background information presented here is 6th nationally for Christian. 98.8% of residents are designed to provide a setting and understanding of born in the UK. In terms of ethnic mix the area ranks some of the causes of poor use of coastal resources very poorly at first place regionally and 2nd and assets to give a more complete overview of nationally. conditions at the coast for local communities. Understanding frustrations and difficulties faced by local communities enables a clearer appreciation of impacts and their sustainable management. A19 DURHAM HERITAGE COAST Following this section are chapters describing how Seaham Hall SCHOOLS PROVISION the coast is used and the main impacts and pressures Seaton that may compromise the sustainable management Seaham Key of the Heritage Coast management area. The SIXTH FORM Dawdon Dalton- SECONDARY information for this section has been taken from le-Dale data from City of Sunderland Planning Policy Team, SPECIAL Murton and community appraisals in County Durham in A182 PRIMARY

2002. Hawthorn Hive

South Shippersea Bay Demography. The age distribution in the Hetton A182 management area reflects the UK national average except in the 20-24 and 25-29 ages ranges. Largely Easington Waterfall due to lack of employment prospects and training Haswell A1086 opportunities, as well as low provision of social

facilities and difficulties in travel, this age group A19 tends to leave the area. There is a rapidly declining Horden North Shotton Dene Mouth population in the management area with youth Colliery leaving and the number of elderly increasing. Since Sea Peterlee Blackhall 1991 there has been a reducing population of 4600 Colliery ranking the area as one of the worst in England and Wheatley Hill Wales. Hendon in South Sunderland has also A181 suffered population decline. Ryhope in contrast has Wingate Castle Eden Monk Crimdon enjoyed an increase as new housing estates catering Hesleden Park Hesledon for the area are developed. Deaf Hill Station Town A1086 Trimdon Hutton Economy. The entire management area fares poorly Colliery Henry A19 Trimdon Grange for employment and is characterised by low income Hart earning. It also ranks highly in England/Wales and A179 the region in terms of numbers of those Trimdon N permanently sick or disabled and unable to work.

Unemployment at Hendon, for example, is currently Durham Heritage Coast Schools Provision more than twice the national average at 8.7%. Although unemployment is viewed by local communities as a major concern, there is optimism in Easington that the new link road to the A19, the Education. There are lower than average staying on more recent factory and business developments in rates and entry to Universities is poor. There is the Enterprise Zone as well as investment by the consistent concern that the area requires investment Seaham Harbour Dock Company, will provide more to cater particularly for the 13-16 age group. This local employment at the coast. Female labour is a group fares poorly in national examinations concern in all areas with low levels of females in dropping below the UK average for GCSE work throughout the management area. Provision qualifications. There is an urgent need for better of careers advice and sources of employment coordination of education and training for adults. information is considered poor. The closure of local Horden particularly has low literacy classes and services for example banks and pubs has further would benefit from enhanced adult education reduced local employment opportunities. Many of provision. The National Trust White Lea farm in these issues are now being addressed by local Easington is developing a project that will form a regeneration partnerships. major boost to the communities of the Durham Heritage Coast management area with the provision of a residential centre and community run café. Youth in Action and Groundwork East Durham are also active in the area working with local youth (Dennis Rooney, pers com).

35 Health. Poor health is a major concern in the area. The area ranks first regionally and nationally for limiting long term illness. High rates of heart disease and mental illnesses characterise coastal communities. Poor diet, lack of exercise and drug abuse are commonly cited as root causes. Facilities for health are poor in communities with a complaint that there are no sport facilities available and no local health advice. Many have to travel to neighbouring villages for a local GP. There are though several initiatives in the area, such as the "Walking to Health" project to address these concerns.

Easington Colliery demolishes “Billy Elliot country” Crime. Petty crime is high in the management area. There are widespread concerns about youth vandalism and anti social activities. The local Housing. There is widespread concern over the state community have requested anti crime measures and of ex colliery housing stock in Easington. There is a community safety programmes, education projects high demolition rate and a requirement for housing as well as community policing. Anti social activities improvements. Residents concerned about what was are widespread and are attributed to drug and commonly termed "unsavoury elements" linked this alcohol misuse, lack of training opportunities, low with an increase in the risk of anti social activities. youth provision and low employment opportunities. Local communities identify a desire for continuation There are initiatives to address these concerns, of environmental enhancement programmes and examples are the introduction of a Task Force at feel that they play an important role in investment Hendon and Easington anti-social behaviour units. in the area. Ex colliery housing is crucial to an Over three years there has been a reduction in crime understanding of the industrial development of the levels in the Hendon area. area. Stock that is capable of repair should be and the social causes of low demand addressed through the housing policies of the local authorities.

36 This table is a very simplified version of issues and consequence, cause and effects in social context is more complex than this document requires.

Issue Negative consequences

High unemployment Depressed area, increases in poverty and consequent social problems Low educational and training opportunities Low educational attainments Unskilled local workforce Increased likelihood of anti social behaviour and crime

Lack of employment diversity Poor opportunities, low income

Youth crime and disorder Security issues for residents and visitors, compromises tourism development Poor Health Low work force capabilities, high costs of health care, inactive population Aging population Less active local population, lack of employment base, increase in health problems Out-migrating workforce Less attractive as an area for younger age groups

Poor transport provision Reduced opportunities for employment/training and leisure, depressed local population

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

SE1 Support and develop initiatives that improve and increase capacity and capability in local communities without compromising the character of the protected area SE2 Develop projects that utilize the protected area as a livelihood option, e.g. local produce, tourism activities SE3 Support and develop projects that encourage better health e.g. cycling and walk coastal pathway SE4 Support projects that tackle anti social behaviour problems as they relate to use of the protected area SE5 Work with partners in communities to improve where possible the quality of life of local communities SE6 Develop and promote community based projects

37 PART TWO Existing Uses of the Heritage Coast

The use of resources by local communities dictates the status and management of the coastal environment. Existing uses are often destructive and unsustainable and changing what may have become traditional uses requires targeted education and advocacy in the local communities as well as action from government structures to provide legislation and policy changes to support such actions. This section considers existing or traditional use patterns occurring in the management area under the following headings; economic, development, recreation and pollution; and ends with an overview of main educational activities and facilities available in the management area.

CHAPTER SEVEN Economic Pressures and Impacts

CHAPTER EIGHT Development Pressures and Impacts

CHAPTER NINE Recreational Pressures and Impacts

CHAPTER TEN Pollution Pressures and Impacts

CHAPTER ELEVEN Educational Resources

CHAPTER TWELVE Strategic Programme for Durham Heritage Coast

CHAPTER THIRTEEN Action Plan

38 CHAPTER SEVEN Economic Pressures and Impacts

This section considers activities that have an There are two local level strategies relevant to the Heritage Coast. The first in Sunderland aims to economic base driving their impact on the celebrate the city, its traditions people and places integrity of the management area. and ensuring access to a high quality range of culture where people can participate (CoS, 2002). TOURISM Easington reflects the needs for reasonable access, health improvements, improved facilities and Increasing tourism is likely to provide additional opportunities and crackdown on crime (DoE, 2003). livelihoods for local communities in the future. How The delivery of these strategies will be through the The Durham Heritage Coasts’ tourism develops creation of policy partnerships in Seaham, Peterlee, requires forward planning. In the region, tourism and the coastal district. They will be multi-agency represents around 10% of the economy and is of and have resident involvement. An audit of coastal more significance to the North East than to other assets was conducted by PLB showing the various regions in the UK. In 2002 a sustainable tourism areas value for tourism development and the strategy for the Heritage Coast was commissioned to following assessment of the potential and problems address this and to provide recommendations for was identified (PLB, 2004). developing the area economically whilst protecting its natural and cultural heritage. Its remit was to: In addition, Durham County Council has developed a cultural strategy. The plan includes the importance Maintain and increase availability and quality of economic and social benefits through culture, of employment in tourism care for existing assets and use of cultural Ensure a high quality visitor experience is opportunities within education and life long available to everyone learning for the benefit of local people (DCC, 2000). Maintain and enhance the quality of the environment on which tourism depends Spread the benefits of tourism throughout coastal communities There has been a steady increase in numbers of domestic tourists in Durham from 0.8 to 1.2 million from 1996 to 2000 (NTB, 2001). Northumbria Tourist Board indicates that County Durham has 14.7 million day trips annually, almost the total combined for day visits for Northumberland and Tees Valley. The bulk of these visits concentrate on the City of Durham and its Christian Heritage. There exists a large number of potential coastal visitors if access, facilities and information were improved. The area has potential for quality tourism in the region, it’s wider appeal likely to take some time as the area becomes established. The strategy states that the Starting early at Crimdon main source of visitors will be residents of Durham, Wearside, Tyne and Teesside (PLB, 2004). The A19 road provides easy access to coastal sites. However it is the very local market of the adjoining communities that are more likely to make more use of the coast and are to be less concerned about security issues.

With no background in the tourism and hospitality industry there is limited tourism accommodation in the Heritage Coast area. Allied with this is an assumed skills deficit as well as a lack of entrepreneurial development in this sector. A survey of current accommodation provision is required along with a skills audit. A programme of business development can then be drawn together with current providers.

39 The Tourism Strategy identified the strengths of coast. For example, there are no obvious Durham Heritage Coast as: facilities on the coast which can offer the opportunity to pick up the guided walk leaflets produced by Easington Council There is a lack of hospitality provision along The range of experiences offered by the Durham Heritage Coast along its length and the contrasts the coast as a whole but particularly at key these provide, e.g. inland denes and coastal path, sites. The catering and other facilities within beaches and woods, sheltered bays and exposed the inland settlements are not attractive or cliff-tops inviting to visitors The opportunity to offer linear exploration of the The colliery sites suffer from a lack of context. coastline or opportunities to ‘pop in and pop out’ The evidence of mining has now largely gone of the Coast by visiting individual sites leaving only settlements without their basis or The high status of nature conservation interests origin. For visitors without prior knowledge of The impact in the landscape and views of the the sites it is hard to understand the history viaducts and railway architecture, creating a link and to appreciate the dramatic changes that between the industrial and the natural landscape have occurred relatively recently The constantly changing coastline and variety of There is a lack of existing visitor attractions in scenes created by nature’s impact through weather, tides, and erosion the general area of the coast and no real The contrasting textures and colours of the tradition of ‘visiting the coast’ aside from beaches (sand and stones), the cliffs (yellow / Crimdon and Seaham black), the grassland and the water (increasing as Many of the coastal sites are currently used to habitat reversion continues) a great extent for local dog-walking which has The contrast between man-made and industrial an impact on the sites and on the enjoyment of features, e.g. viaducts, denes and beaches etc them by other users The proximity of certain sites to settlements Balancing increasing biodiversity and habitat allowing use of the countryside as a local health and recreation resource sensitivity with greater visitor numbers needed to develop economic sustainability The archaeological and historical richness of the area which offers interpretive potential, though The coast presents a very ‘masculine’ face to not always of visible features or remains the visitor, in that most of its current users are The relatively blank canvas offered by some sites men walking dogs, sea anglers, bikers etc. for the development of facilities There appears little attraction for or use by The certain sense of wildness, tranquility and the women or families although this may be natural environment returning after the intrusive different in summer months human impact of the mining industry Developing interpretation which is appropriate The precedent set by ‘Turning The Tide’ in to the coast, accepted locally and provides for establishing community involvement and pride at visitor needs certain sites and a baseline for infrastructure The existing strength and variety of initiatives Encouraging understanding and care for an proposed by partners and other interests along area whose natural heritage significance might the Coast not be immediately apparent to all Initiatives and projects may be being undertaken in isolation by partners and other ISSUES interests along the coast without a strategic framework which considers the impact on the The audit carried out in 2002 identified the whole. following issues and challenges within the Durham Heritage Coast and its component sites: This is not an area of what could be called ‘unspoilt’ coast, and does not have the romantic image that Within the built heritage of the coast and its Northumberland coast, for example, has. There is a inland corridor, there are areas of unappealing tranquility and the certain sense of the wildness, or derelict buildings. Many of the interesting tranquility and the natural environment returning historical buildings are in private hands and after human impact which for the management area not accessible by the general public, thus is an excellent strength. reducing the potential for enhancement and access The separation of the coast from its hinterland by the railway, and the need to access many sites through narrow, dark entrances or to park at a distance from the coast does not give the visitor a sense of security or comfort and requires investment in physical infrastructure There is a lack of information provision, other than the ‘Turning The Tide’ panels, along the

40 Issue Negative consequences

East Durham and Sunderland’s industrial history Misconceptions about coast

Security, lack of amenities, low quality Unattractive to visitors

Lack of Interpretation and poor signage Lowers access and recognition and attractiveness for visitors

Poor state of some areas through littering Reinforces unattractiveness

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

T1 Promote Heritage Coast objectives, raise profile and alter perceptions of Durham Coast through improved appearance and increasing awareness T2 Promote provision and concept of quality gateway sites to the coast T3 Promote projects that market the coast as a destination for quiet recreation T4 Develop appropriate commercial opportunities which will have sustainable economic and employment impacts. T5 Promote and develop a range of experiences for local communities and visitors T6 Develop and promote opportunities for youth participation. T7 Promote development of opportunities for skills development, confidence and capacity building through activities, projects and fostering community ownership of the coast T8 Promote and develop sustainable transport opportunities. T9 Promote improvements to the built environment T10 Promote improved health in local communities by encouraging access to coast and outdoor activities that require exercise (walking, cycling) T11 Utilise appropriate European and natural guidance on sustainable tourism and ICZM

41 interest in an agri-environment scheme There are some concerns relating to the water quality of streams, concentrating residues from agricultural activity within the watershed, along with urban surface water runoff (Environment Agency).

The objectives of the TTT project were to re-create the natural grassland habitats of the Durham Coast from arable land and reclaimed colliery sites. The original aim of 194 hectares of Magnesian limestone grassland has been reached and exceeded with 225 hectares to date. Threats from agriculture are more likely to derive from further inland and there are a number of threats and issues surrounding agricultural practice. These centre on the use of non Field of corn at Hawthorn organic fertilizers that leach into ground-waters or travel down water courses. The resultant input of AGRICULTURE compounds such as ammonium nitrate (nitrogen and phosphorus) causes raised nutrient loading and The Durham Habitat Creation strategy (1999) eutrophication. In coastal waters this increases characterises the agricultural situation as growth of algae and causes smothering of the "Agriculture has been a significant factor in the seabed flora due to the excessive growth of certain landscape and wildlife value of the coastal zone. In aquatic plants. Fertilisers are a primary source of the 1860 most of the landward coastal area was rough nitrogen and phosphorus in runoff from agricultural pasture. It is envisaged that these grasslands would land. Pesticide chemicals have a particularly high be similar to fragments that remain today around potential to pollute water. Beacon Hill, Dawdon and Crimdon. By 1940 much of the grassland had already been ploughed for arable cultivation, with the last recorded loss of grassland at South Blackhall in 1960. The arable land use not only destroyed much land of previous nature conservation interest but has had a detrimental effect upon the coastal SSSI, through nutrient run off from fertilizer applications and from discharges of field drains."

This situation has changed with the majority of the land in the management area now under management and protection as a result of the Turning the Tide Partnership. The remaining agricultural areas are under private ownership. Future use of these areas is unclear. The main area for agriculture is the northern section. There are some risks from agriculture present on coastal slopes and in the denes such as Seaham Hall Dene, Ryhope Dene and Ryhope Halliwell Dene. Largely the agricultural influence on the coastal grasslands which are mainly designated as SSSI/NNR is now removed. At least one landowner has expressed

Issue Negative consequences

Fertiliser use in inland sites Eutrophication risk

Pesticide use Pollution

Inappropriate land management Reduced status of protected area

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

H21 Encourage diversification of agriculture and take up of agri-environment schemes H22 Encouraging partnerships with local farmers, improved working together H23 Encourage development of local produce market H24 Provide information to local landowners on value of land to conservation and options open to them in terms of the protected area’s landscape and conservation value

42 Commercial fishing. Waters off the western North Sea have traditionally represented some of the most productive commercial fisheries in the World. Commercial vessels in the region are mainly involved in trawling and potting operations concentrating on demersal and shellfish species which are targeted by inshore trawling operations and fixed gear nets and lines. After the 1980s nephrops became of greater importance as a result of declines in demersal fish stocks. The north east is of significance for shellfish species for UK consumption and abroad (North East Sea fisheries Plan, 2000). This industry is directly affected by European legislation. The European Commission has initiated a wide debate on the review of the Common Fisheries Policy after 2002. Seaham Harbour The inshore commercial fishing industry off the coast comprises a drift net fishery for salmon and sea trout, a pot fishery for crab and lobster and a general fixed net fishery (NE Sea fisheries Plan). The salmon and sea trout fishery is in the process of being phased out to protect native stock levels. At Seaham there is a small commercial fishing fleet. Seaham fishermen use small boats that may fish up to 6 miles offshore and the boats return at the end of each days fishing. In the summer the boats fish for Salmon. During the rest of the year the main catch is crab and lobster, which are caught in 'pots'. These special traps are baited and then dropped to the seabed in shallow water.

Fishing in the Sunderland section is likewise in general decline largely as a result of decommissioning and transfer to alternative livelihoods as a consequence of declining fisheries. The fleet from Sunderland has declined by 55% during the 2001-2003 period. Of boats remaining the catch is largely non-quota fish species and crustaceans (Frank Major, pers comm.). The industry is increasingly dependent upon fish transferred overland from Scotland and other local ports.

The consequence of these factors amounts to reduced levels of income for those still active in the sector reducing the industry’s long term viability. Risks to the industry are also covered in chapter three under the ecological consequences of fishing.

Issue Negative consequences

Overfishing Local economy suffers Ecological damage

Decommissioning Local economy suffers

Social and culture shifts Less interest in fishing as a livelihood

Lack of information regarding history of fishing Loss of cultural history in area

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

S17 Promote consideration of impact of activities on habitat and species through planning process S15 Support sustainable fishery management measures and practices C8 Conserve the history of fishing in area for cultural interpretation

43 CHAPTER EIGHT Development Pressures and Impacts

This section considers the use of the frequency of services (Community Appraisals, 2002). The Rural Transport Partnerships; Tyne and Wear, management area in terms of development East Durham and Tees Valley seek to broaden pressures such as transport, urban expansion, provision and access to public transport across the built environment, dredging, mineral extraction East Durham area. Recent developments indicate that proposals to reinstate the coastal line may now and offshore wind farms. be delayed or downgraded. Future development will require action at political level. TRANSPORT The current poor provision limits access for tourism The Durham Coast railway line running north-south, development and local users. Future development of parallel to the coast, is an important landscape the area economically will depend largely on the element. Originally constructed to transport coal development of improved transport services. from the coastal mines, it creates a physical barrier which has in many places limited the encroachment of the built development onto the coastal landscape. The Durham Coast rail line connects the regional centres of Wearside, Teeside and Tyneside. Although the route passes along the entire length of Durham's Heritage Coast there is only one passenger halt at Seaham. Many communities have expressed a desire for a rail halt to be developed in their settlement. Current plans include the provision of rail halts at Ryhope, Easington Colliery and Hart Station, as well as improvements to Seaham station. Rail halts will aid in the economic recovery of the coastal area. They will allow the communities served by the halts immediate access to the commercial, industrial and academic centres of Teesside, Wearside and Tyneside. In addition they will serve as Green Gateways for visitors to the coast. The management area is served by three Local Transport Plans; Tyne and Wear, Durham and The Tees Valley. These provide the strategic framework that drives the provision, integration and improvement of public transport across regions.

With some of the lowest rates of car ownership in the country, local communities use public transport extensively. Public transport is perceived to be poor in some areas with concerns regarding the cost and

Issue Negative consequences

Poor transport provision for residents Limited access to employment and training opportunities

Poor access for tourists Restricts tourism development and economic regeneration

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

R1 Promote enhanced Local Transport Plans for increased and improved rail provision R2 Support and promote integrated transport R3 Promote and actively encourage users to choose sustainable modes of transport R4 Promote tourism related transport e.g. summer bus trails R5 Ensure partnership has an established input into Local Transport Plans

44 Dredging. Seaham Harbour is a medium sized port and the only port in the Heritage Coast management area. Sunderland’s port is outside the management area. It’s influence is of importance in its cross boundary impacts. For the purposes of this plan only the port in the defined area is covered here.

Seaham’s major business is handling dry bulk loads and forestry products. It handles an annual total 550,000 tonnes of product from around 500 shipping movements. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency A view of Seaham Harbour consider that Seaham have a comprehensive and well monitored Waste Management Plan (MCA,2000). The main area of concern has been the discharge of solid waste in the form of dredging. Seaham harbour was licensed to dump up to 60,000 tonnes of dredging spoil between 1998-9 and now generates 15,000 cubic metres per annum. The Seaham Harbour material is dumped within 0.25 nautical miles of Nose's point (Seaham Harbour Dock Company, pers comm.). The spoil is composed of sand, silty clay and high organics content. It varies from mud slurry to highly compacted sediment. Concerns have been raised regarding smothering of the seabed and its environmental impacts, the increases in turbidity and possible mobilization of heavy metals in sediments.

Dredging occurs to maintain navigation in ports, harbours, inland waterways and marinas. The dredged material requires disposal, usually at sea. The greater proportion of dredged material is of similar composition to undisturbed sediment in inland and coastal waters. A proportion of dredged sediment may be contaminated by human activities. Environmental impacts are covered by guidelines of the London Convention 1972 and the 1996 Protocol. Further the smothering of the Seabed through dredging has an added potential consequence of damaging important archaeology.

Issue Negative consequences

Smothering of seabed Ecological impacts on seabed marine life

Increases in turbidity Reduced light availability for marine life

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

H14 Ensure partnership has advisory and consultation role in planned development and activities (such as dredging)

45 Urban expansion. There are no recent buildings adjacent to the coastal zone with the exception of the business park at Dawdon. Local plans do not currently target any particular locations in the management area. The continued demolition of structures along the coast and provision of green areas will alter perceptions of the coastal areas. There is an industrial development zone south of Ryhope, linked to the new southern radial route and rail halt construction. New planning guidance from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) highlighting the importance of protected landscapes will ease developmental pressure on this area. The Heritage Coast would oppose all unnecessary Rail Bridge at Hawthorn Hive development and building on the coastal zone The Built Environment. Development control is a creating negative environmental or social impacts. statutory responsibility of local authorities and is covered in the relevant Structure, Local or Unitary Offshore development control is currently subject to Development Plans. Central government guidance much debate. Particular interest is focused on the for coastal areas exists in the form of Planning Policy first trial offshore wind farms. Apart from the visual Guidance Note 20 - Coastal Planning and is being impact there may be some environmental issues that updated through new guidance that will take arise such as noise disturbance of marine life. Other increasing account of protected landscapes. During offshore issues are arising and it is clear that some the life of this plan, new planning arrangements will form of planning control will be required as the be in place. For example new Planning Policy infrastructure increases. The Government initiated a Statements (PPS’s), the NE Regional Spatial Strategy cross cutting Review of Development in Marine and (RSS) and Local Development Documents (LDD). Coastal waters in May 2002 to address the complexity, overlap of roles and timescales required The development of the Southern Radial Route as a for consenting processes. This process should be new road into Sunderland will reinforce the complete by the end of 2004. perceived barrier separating the community from the Heritage Coast management area. Current Other built environment issues that may impact on proposals for major housing and economic the Heritage Coast include mobile telephone masts, development and road construction will significantly onshore and offshore wind farms and the provision alter the landscape of the southern Sunderland of wastewater outfalls. The recent issue of waste section between Ryhope and Tunstall. Where the water has already increased coastal development road crosses to the east of the railway there is with a treatment plant at Horden and further plans potential for dramatic views from the road. The rail for treatment at Dawdon. Their spread and impact line acts as a barrier to free access to the coastal environmentally and socially must be monitored and areas. The bridges provide access under the line, assessed. impressive structures, their misuse and neglect needs to be addressed. These bridges can be used positively as entrances to the coast and as a celebration of some of the most impressive structures the region has to offer. Ryhope is home to an original Londonderry Railway bridge dating from 1844, Hawthorn Viaduct displays a good example of a single span brick bridge, and the viaducts over Castle Eden Dene and Crimdon are fine examples of Victorian engineering.

Issue Negative consequences

Urban expansion Visual and habitat/wildlife concerns

Offshore developments Visual impacts and wildlife/environment concerns

Windfarms spread Wildlife and aesthetic concerns

Waste water treatment works Visual impact on the coast/ecological impact

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

H4 Influence development plans to ensure the undeveloped nature of the coast is retained. R6 Promote improvements and interpretation of existing built structures such as rail bridges

46 Mineral Extraction. There are no sites of active There are some environmental concerns with regard mineral extraction within the Durham Heritage to the impacts of spillage in coastal waters and Coast management area and Partner authorities offshore on marine life. In addition there are development plans specifically exclude any future increasing concerns regarding the impact of seismic mineral extraction development. There is presently testing to marine wildlife particularly marine one quarry site in the management area. Hawthorn mammals. Further issues regarding habitat Quarry has been used for limestone extraction but disturbance from laying of pipelines and cables has been closed for several years. At present it’s require evaluating. future is uncertain. Mineral extraction offshore is outside local authority control. Any proposed extraction would presently be under the control of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. The Crown Estate Commissioners would also be involved in licensing such activities.

For oil and gas exploration offshore, the Department of Trade and Industry has embarked upon a process of Strategic Environmental Assessment for the UK continental shelf North East Area (DTI, 2003). The purpose of this exercise is to enable licensing of regional offshore oil and gas exploration and development in an environmentally sensitive manner. The SEA must consider inshore areas, bays and inlets even though they are not currently available for licensing. The areas indicated continue up to the high water mark in order to consider the marine environment as a whole. Licensing of the UK Continental Shelf (UKCS) for oil and gas exploration and production commenced in 1964 and has progressed through a series of rounds. Offshore developments are likely to have consequences on the Durham Heritage Coast.

Based on geological characteristics it is likely that there will be gas and hydrocarbons (oil) off the North East coast. Current blocks within the SEA 3 area were first offered for licensing in 1964 (DTI, 2003). However much of the area has limited potential for commercial oil and gas reserves and uptake of the blocks offered is expected to be low at 10%. Offshore developments threaten the wildlife of the coast

Issue Negative consequences

Seismic disturbance Impacts on marine wildlife

Spillage Environmental damage

Cables and pipeline laying Habitat disturbance

Future quarrying activity Impacts on wildlife of area

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

H14 Ensure Partnership advisory and consultation role in planned development activities

47 CHAPTER NINE Recreational Pressures and Impacts

INTRODUCTION ACCESS AND RIGHTS OF WAY

This chapter describes the main recreational use Access through walking, horse riding and cycling is fundamental to the sustainable use of the coast and and impacts on the coast. Recreational use in fostering a sense of involvement and ownership involves residents and visitors using the area and of the management area. Access is a consistent issue of concern with local communities. Turning the Tide its resources for leisure. These include both made significant progress in opening up access to positive and negative impacts and often centre the coast, both for residents and tourists. Some around coastal access arrangements and conflicts however exist between vehicle use for access into what are now protected areas and often conflicts. A wide programme of improvements, restricted for management purposes, or have been interpretation and promotion was carried out traditionally used and provide access for antisocial during the 'Turning the Tide' initiative and these activities. There remains poor access to the beaches in a number of places and this in large part is due to have had a large impact on the variety of uses and the difficulties of siting structures on the unstable users of the coast. These include the coastal cliffs. In a wider sense, the lack of rail transport to the coast limits the access by residents and visitors path, the linking cycle-ways, on site and the provision of rail halts over the next 5 years interpretation and a suite of promotional leaflets. will encourage visitors to the coast and provide better transport for local communities. Thus enabling increased employment prospects with travel to the main work areas of Durham,

R. Wear Sunderland and Newcastle. Sunderland Key Durham Heritage A690 Coast The Heritage Coast is further developing a Coastal footpath comprehensive rights of way network. The existing network has been disrupted over the years as in the Ryhope Cycleway Railway case of the fragmented bridleway system, and by natural processes such as erosion causing loss of cliff A19 top footpaths. An extensive cycle network route exists, National Cycle Newtwork (NCN). However Seaham there is no clear linear coastal route, only access North routes to the coast. NCN1 runs parallel to but some distance from the coast and is underused. NCN 14 Murton Sea runs from Hartlepool to Wingate. There is a desire A19 for a linear coastal route to provide an incentive for cycling visits to the area. A182 There is often confusion regarding Rights of Way Easington between the various users. The footpath network consists of permissive paths as well as Rights of Way. Legal definition under the Highways Act would help in ensuring responsibility for maintenance is Peterlee A1086 understood, in protection against misuse and in the prosecution of offenders.

A181

Wingate A19

A179 Hartlepool

N

A689 R. Tees

Coastal Path and Cycle Pathways

48 Access to beaches is often poor and unsafe. Disabled access also requires considerable improvements along existing pathways. Illegal motor vehicle access occurs at Salterfen, Noses Point, Dawdon, Warren House Horden and Denemouth Blackhall Colliery. It is a problem with its roots in the social history of the area. Increased access may also increase pressure on wildlife through disturbance and erosion. Access routes must be carefully sited to avoid sensitive wildlife sites.

The Coastal footpath is one of the best in the country.

The coastal footpath in Durham has been popular with residents and visitors and requires routine care to ensure that it is well maintained. A direct link through the northern Ryhope section is required to replace the path lost to the sea. This will then provide a continuous through path along the whole of the Heritage Coast management area allowing Horseriders using informal access routes across the dunes accelerate the communities of Wearside and Teeside direct erosion. footpath access to the coast. The northern section of the coast in south Sunderland is not well served by Access and rights of way. The Countryside and footpaths. Rights of Way Act 2000 (CRoW 2000) has introduced opportunities that allow the expansion of open Uncontrolled and illegal access occurs at points access land through other mechanisms. For example, along the Heritage Coast. Pedestrian access centres voluntary dedications of access land (Section 16) and around the beach cliffs, and creation of walking land owners entering into management agreements paths. Cliff paths do occur along the coast but (Section 96) are new mechanisms that can assist in unstable ground compromises the construction of the provision of improved coastal access whilst formal access. Horse users often illegally use maintaining the land owners interest. Of particular footpaths largely due to insufficient circular route significance for the management unit is that the provision for this sector. Existing bridleways do not Secretary of State may amend the definition of ‘open country’ to include coastal land. Recent RoW provide a usable network of routes for horse riders. schedule 6 amendment allows Rights of Way to be However there is a growing interest in horse diverted or closed due to anti social activity. ownership and use within the area evidenced at Crimdon. There is economic potential in encouraging this activity.

Issue Negative consequences

Conflicts between users Reduces use of area and creates conflict

Anti social use of pathways Negative perception of area, lowers usage

Maintenance Low quality product in attracting visitors and for residents

Beach access Current conflict and poor provision

Safety of access Liability concerns with improvements and low usage

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

R7 Promote and develop improvements in access and condition of access routes R8 Promote and initiate projects to improve disabled access R9 Develop projects that access funding for improvements in security E1 Work with partners and community to resolve conflicts

49 WATER BASED ACTIVITIES

There is very little boating activity in the management area although hobby crabbing activities occur out of Seaham. Sailing occurs off the Tees, the Wear and Tyne estuaries. Public marinas exist at Hartlepool and Sunderland, but there are none within the management area. There may be potential to promote water based activities at Crimdon or at Hendon and Ryhope. However conflicts with water based recreational activities may occur for example with landscape, wildlife and nature conservation activities especially at Crimdon where there are a number of nature conservation Boating concerns, and with other users. This must be fully assessed before zoning plans are implemented.

Issue Negative consequences

Conflict between motorised craft and quiet uses Unattractiveness

Access difficulties Negative nature conservation

Lack of launch sites Zoning restrictions

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

H14 Ensure partnership advising and consultation role in planned develoment activities E1 Work with partnership and community to resolve conflicts. T12 Investigate potential for zoning and codes of conduct and their impact

SCUBA-DIVING means that the area has not developed for diving There are twelve listed sub aqua clubs in the Durham (A.Tiernan, pers comm.). The area is poor in marine area and six in Sunderland. The north east offers life away from the artificial reef-wreck effect. As the some of the best diving in the UK although this is area recovers, it is likely that visibility will improve largely concentrated around the Northumberland and marine life recover. This may encourage more coast. Because the area has been heavily used in the diving activity for local clubs. A recent issue is the past and because of the rocky coastline, there are a restriction on launching access to Seaham Harbour large number of wrecks recorded off the coast. which limits the amount of activity along the Durham however is not as popular with scuba divers Durham Coast. Engaging these groups is important as the Northumberland coast. The main reasons for in getting information about sub-tidal areas and its this is the poor visibility because of the areas recovery and in securing community support. proximity to the mouth of major rivers Tyne, Tees and the Wear and as a result of the past dumping of colliery spoil. Although there are a number of sites, especially wrecks, with rich marine life, the poor visibility limits the areas use. The further accessibility to a better class of dive sites in Northumberland

Issue Negative consequences

Poor visibility Low interest in diving

Lower marine life interest than elsewhere Low interest in diving

Lack of available launch sites Restrictions

Lack of information about sites Low usage

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

H13 Promote study into habitats and species H16 Promote greater public understanding of marine life and Heritage

50 ANGLING

The area has a strong local tradition of beach angling. Practiced throughout the year, most effort is concentrated in the winter months, particularly in the period after gales. The Seaham Angling Club was founded in 1912 and is one of the oldest and largest sea-angling clubs in the UK. The club's members mostly fish from the shore, principally from Ryhope Dene to Hawthorn Hive. There are regular local competitions and a strong club network along the coast. Angling activities in southern Sunderland are concentrated around Hendon beach promenade. These angling communities have a vital role in ensuring responsible stewardship through their membership and reducing the environmental impact of angling. Angling is important to the local A sea angler waits patiently for a bite. economy. Furthermore, it is accessible, sociable and local, providing a healthy outdoor activity. It further encourages understanding and interest in wildlife and nature in the local communities.

Target species for shore anglers are cod, codling and coalfish although how the recent crash in the North Sea fishery has effected local anglers is unclear. Fish species targeted over the summer months are mainly plaice, flounder, dabs, eel and mackerel. The higher levels of activity in the winter months draw anglers from the wider north east region (Seaham Sea anglers club website 1999).

Risks to recreational angling are covered in chapter three, but there are further issues regarding access to shore and the level of litter discarded on beaches. The following information on bait is likely to become more relevant as the areas beaches recover.

Bait digging. In recent years, demand for bait nationwide has increased as sea angling has become more popular. Many sea anglers collect their own live bait locally, with only a small impact on species populations and habitats. Bait digging and collecting occurs in muddy and sandy inter tidal areas, in particular ragworm and lugworm. (MCA,2003). In the management area there is little information available on bait digging. However there is some anecdotal indication that bait digging occurs although, digging has been reduced at Blackhall Rocks. It is assumed that there is some "peeler" (crab) collection, although as yet this is not quantifiable.

Issue Negative consequences

Access Conflicts of use

Localised intensive use Localized impact of target species populations

Litter Unsightliness on beaches and danger to wildlife

Bait digging Over exploitation of species Habitat disturbance

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

S15 Support appropriate sustainable fisheries controls and practices H12 Promote studies to assess potential impacts of bait digging (Bait collecting for recreational purposes should be managed to ensure that resources are harvested responsibly and sustainably E1 Work with partners and communities to resolve access issues (for shoreline angling)

51 CHAPTER TEN Pollution Pressures and Impacts

INTRODUCTION

This chapter looks at impacts of pollution in one A19 DURHAM HERITAGE COAST form or another from wastewater and sewage to DOG FOUL HOTSPOTS littering. Seaham Hall Beach Seaham Dog fouling. Dog fouling is an increasing problem Seaham Hall Car park nationally (Tidy Britain Group, 2000). The main concerns relate to health concerns and the Murton unsightliness that it causes. Toxocara canis A182 roundworms eggs are shed in dog excreta and can be easily picked up by humans, especially children. Easington Colliery The impact of this contributes to low levels of A182 children and families living on the coast. Dog faeces Easington create a visually unpleasing pollution of the beach areas as well as posing a health hazard. Figures A1086 North nationwide indicate that it is a widespread problem Sea that causes a great deal of concern. Around 80% of A19 adults expressed concern over dog fouling in a Shotton Blackhall Colliery Colliery Peterlee recent survey by the Tidy Britain group. In the Heritage Coast management area there are Blackhall Rocks identified hotspots at Ryhope, Seaham Hall Beach and car park, Easington Colliery, Blackhall Colliery A181 Crimdon and Blackhall rocks, and Crimdon. Wingate

A1086

A19

A179 N

Dog fouling hotspots

Issue Negative consequences

Health Danger especially to children

Unsightliness Poor image of coast

User conflicts Management difficulties

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

R10 Promote improved controls over dog use and impacts through legal instruments and education

52 Litter. Litter is a universal problem, and as with other UK wide fishing debris was the second most common anti social activities it requires action at both source in all regions except North East England enforcement and the community level. Beach litter is where sewage related debris (SRD) made up the commonly an issue as this is often the first image of second highest proportion of litter. Cotton bud sticks the Heritage Coast, especially for visitors. The District made up over 60% of all sewage related debris in of Easington conducts twice yearly beach cleaning UK. In terms of density the North East ranked as exercises that remove larger sized items dumped on second in England with a recorded 2,683 items per accessible beaches (M.Ohlson pers comm.). kilometer. A major concern is the extensive use of non-biodegradable waste. Beach visitors are found The Marine Conservation Society’s Beach Watch to be responsible for the greatest amount of litter project has been conducted in the management area found on beaches followed by SRD and shipping. in 2001 and 2003. Past events have been relatively small scale at Castle Eden dene, Crimdon and "Litter continues to occur on UK beaches in such Seaham. Activities are coordinated through Durham high densities, wildlife remain at risk especially from Voles (English Nature) and through the Durham persistent plastics. Coastal communities, many of County Council Countryside volunteers (D. Ranner, which rely on the marine environment for their pers comm.). Recorded litter from these events was livelihood (tourism, fishing and recreational water composed mainly of colliery related debris such as sports) …pay the price of coastal litter. Revenue is conveyor belting, marine borne litter, fishing litter, lost from spoilt fish catches and damage to property, and a high percentage of plastic (MCS, 2002). SRD on beaches affect tourism, and the cost of repeated beach cleaning operations runs into At Crimdon where the sea reaches the elevated part millions of pounds annually. Determined efforts are of the beach is a tendency for accumulation of litter required to reduce the pollution of coast at source. at the strandline, before it is blown onto the shore Local authorities, water authorities and government and dune. Lower levels of litter were recorded on must play their part to reduce and clean up litter." the foreshore during surveys. Coastal slopes act as (Marine Conservation Society 2002). wind driven collection areas and are difficult to deal with due to safety issues. It causes a threat to local wildlife and reduces the aesthetic attraction of the site. Other hotspots for litter are at car parking areas and are largely dependent on owners and local management regimes and mainly take the form of snack debris.

Litter is a further concern on coastal pathways used by cyclists, horse-riders and for general access. This litter derives from the local community and tourists. Since 1994 density of litter on beaches in the UK has risen by 54%. Four sources contributed overall; direct littering by recreational beach users (39.1%) fishing activities (14.6%) sewage outfalls (3.9%) and shipping (2.2%), (MCS,2002)

Issue Negative consequences

Unsightliness Poor image of coast, low use Compromises tourism development

Litter and wildlife Impact on seabed environment, ingestion by species, entanglement of e.g seabirds and other coastal wildlife Human health and economics Tourism potential compromised Clean up costs to authority Impact on fishing interest through impacts on wildlife

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

R11 Develop and promote projects that reduce littering of the coastal area R12 Promote and encourage better disposal options R13 Promote improved controls of littering and offenders R14 Promote and support community policing and wardening schemes

53 Horden and Seaham. If the material is of a more unusual nature then the facility at Coxhoe is used. The civic amenity facility in the Sunderland section is at Beach Street near the city centre.

Remnants of industry exposed on the beach

Anti-social activities. Car burn out and fly-tipping are both amongst the most problematic anti social activities in the management area. They are year round activities and stem from a general disregard for the coast. Such waste is not only unsightly but harmful to wildlife and people using the coast. The further cost of removal of fly-tipping and car burn outs is carried by the land owners in the Car disposal management area, taking away much needed funding from essential conservation and enhancement work. Although fly-tipping and car dumping occurs along the coast there are particular hotspots at Deadmans, (Blackhall Rocks), Denemouth and Deneholme Road, (Blackhall Flytipping is a major problem that Colliery), Limekilns Gill and Horden Warren House, destroys the area’s appeal and is a Nose's Point (Dawdon), Ryhope Dene, Halliwell danger to people and wildlife. Dene, (Ryhope), Salterfen Lane, (Ryhope) and at Hendon. Car tipping is also a result of end of life disposal for a variety of reasons including insurance fraud, joyriding and vandalism. There is a requirement for lobbying on changes to end of life procedures as this presents a national not just a local problem for the management area.

The continuation of anti social activities reinforce the widespread negative misconceptions about the use of the coast. Such activities are illegal and the most effective way to prevent them is to improve security, improve policing and prosecution. Conducting education and advocacy in the local communities to reinforce changes in user patterns is an effective method for longer term improvements. There are facilities for disposal locally, For general household waste there are facilities in Thornley,

Issue Negative consequences

Burnout and fly-tipping Reinforces poor image of coast Security is poor

Dumping in sensitive area Wildlife conflicts

Threats to users Accident or injury especially children

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

R15 Support projects that improve security of management area R16 Support projects that build capacity and capabilities in local communities E2 Develop and promote interpretation and education to change user patterns

54 Motorcycle use. Motorcycle misuse of the management area has been addressed previously by the Turning the Tide Project and a separate report was prepared (1999). Although a sports activity it remains a problem in the management area. The continuing improvements in pathways, bridleways and cycle paths further means that there are likely to be increasing conflicts with other users of the pathways on the coast, in terms of use and noise intrusion.

The provision of facilities for the disabled and cyclists militates against conventional methods of exclusion such as fences and barriers. Illegal motorcycle use degrades the area, compromise and damages nature conservation sites and reduce public appeal of the management area. Hotspots are Ryhope, Warren House Dene, Denemouth, Blackhall Rocks, Dawdon and Crimdon. There has been considerable success by Peterlee Police on controlling and reducing the problem. Activities in the Sunderland section are concentrated around the Hendon Beach area. They do though represent a user group and must be considered in management. For example in Motorcycles often conflict with the tranquility and natural beauty Sunderland there is a privately run facility for of the coast. motorcycles at Warden Law. However the expense and transport to the site are prohibitive to coastal users and there are concerns from residents regarding noise levels.

Issue Negative consequences

Access conflicts Difficulties in management

Site Damage Habitat and species loss

Conservation conflicts Difficulties in management

Perceptions Threatening to other users

Pollution Fuel and noise

Heath and safety Risks to other users and wildlife

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

R15 Support projects that improve security of management area R16 Support projects that build capacity and capabilities in local communities E2 Develop and promote interpretation and education to change user patterns

55 Car parking. There are at least fifteen formal and informal car parking areas provided. Of those car parks enhanced through the 'Turning the Tide' project, most have been successfully maintained. The Ryhope section is served by informal, ad hoc car parking. Seaham is well served by formal car parks. The section of coast between Dawdon and Blackhall Rocks has considerable informal car access. However, parking is generally away from the nearest settlements, increasing security concerns. The provision at Crimdon and Dawdon has been addressed through improvement schemes initiated by the Heritage Coast Prtnership.

Along the coast the informal car access Car parking improvements at Seaham Hall Beach were provided arrangements and parking areas attract fly tipping under Turning the Tide. and car burnouts, the constant removal of which consumes valuable resources. Where car access and parking are a source of conflict, local action plans should be developed with communities so that sustainable longer-term solutions are found.

Issue Negative consequences

Security Excludes users due to safety concerns

Quality Image of area is poor

Access conflicts Difficulties in management

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

R17 Develop and promote improvements in quality and security of car parking amenities R18 Promote programme of improvements to local features and access to sites E1 Work with partners and community to resolve access conflicts and problems

56 Wastewater. Prior to the cessation of mining activities, pumping from the active pits controlled mine water. Following their closure, pumping has gradually been reduced by the Coal Authority, to establish the interconnectivity between the various collieries. The principal risk from the slowly rising mine water levels is to the Permian Limestone Aquifer, which is a major source of drinking water. The Coal Authority is currently investigating the possibility of establishing a pumping stations on possible sites and disposing of the treated water to sea at the coast. Partners are involved in their statutory roles in this process to bring about the best solution. The contingency plan to deal with the rising minewater is now in process using an existing pipe at Horden. There have been concerns raised regarding the environmental and visual impact of such works on the Heritage Coast and Partners are working together with the Coal Authority to ensure the protection of the Heritage Coast management area and the resources of local communities (East Durham Minewater Group, 2003).

The streams that run through the gills and denes Waste water outfall tend to be seasonal. They are frequently used for surface water drainage and so are particularly susceptible to rapid flooding, which substantially increases erosion along the banks of the streams. The rapid flooding of these streams also means that they suffer from residual debris when the flood subsides (English Nature pers comm.). Supermarket trolleys, building debris and plastic bags commonly litter the streambeds. There is continuing evidence of the areas industrial past in the form of broken concrete structures and redundant pipe work, polluting a number of local streambeds.

Issue Negative consequences

Rising mine-water levels Pollution of aquifer and environment

Pumping of mine-water Pollution concerns Visual impact of treatment

Long term treatment plants Visual impact lowers tourism potential

Litter and debris in rivers Poor image of coast Danger to wildlife Risks to local users

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

H18 To consult Environment Agency Local Environment Area Plans (LEAPs) H19 Work with partners to ensure that future treatment plant and activities minimize environmental and visual impact on the Heritage Coast H4 Support programmes to improve condition and monitor streams

57 Toxic pollution from sewage and other sources has a cumulative effect on the entire food chain. Once certain toxic chemicals enter the environment, it may be decades before they are eliminated. Issues include the impact on human health through viruses and on health of wildlife and the general environment.

Currently there is major funding allocated for the North East region to comply with EC Waste Water Directives.

The Environment Agency regularly monitor bathing water on the coast and this is generally in good to excellent condition along the management area (EA Sewage treatment plant at on the coast website 2003).

The limestone plateau is a major aquifer providing Sewage effluent. Since 1991 Northumbrian Water drinking water for communities in East Durham and has invested in environmental improvements along Sunderland to the North. Much of the area is the coast from Hendon to Crimdon (A. Baker pers designated as a Source Protection Zone for drinking comm.). Before work started, there were continuous water. untreated sewage discharges at Hendon, Seaham North, Seaham Central, Seaham South, Warren house, Horden Dene, Blackhills Gill, Dawdon, Deneholme and Limekiln Gill. All of these discharges have now been intercepted and flows diverted to new modern treatment works that have been built and commissioned at Hendon, Horden and Seaham. These works deliver preliminary treatment (screening), primary treatment (settlement), secondary treatment (biological digestion) and, in the case of Hendon, also additional tertiary treatment (ultra violet disinfection). The cleaned waste water is then returned to the environment through new long sea outfalls constructed from the three works. Since 1991 a number of unsatisfactory combined sewer outfalls (cso's), which are consented to operate in emergency storm conditions, have also been improved at Seaham, Horden, Dalton Burn, Gore Burn and Heads Hope Burn. A further improvement scheme is also currently nearing completion to address other unsatisfactory cso's at Hendon, Salterfen, Grangetown and Ryhope.

There are local concerns that untreated sewage is being washed down to the Seaham area and threatening health and the environment. Concerns over the capacity of sewage treatment works in the south Sunderland area have been raised. Sewage pollution can impair the use of the area for swimming, boating, fishing, wildlife observation and other uses.

Issue Negative consequences

Input of virus and bacteria Human health issues

Input of nitrates Ecological impacts

Sewage related litter on shore Unsightliness, compromises tourism

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

H20 Support and promote compliance procedures for bathing waters R19 Promote and support local action to reduce sewage related litter

58 CHAPTER ELEVEN Educational Resources

INTRODUCTION

This is presented as a summary regarding The local authorities likewise have a range of proactive education programmes such as Easington education provision. A full audit of what is and Seaham Education Action Zone, Education and available and needed locally in the management learning Development Plan 2002-2007, Walk to area is required. school campaign (DCC), Agenda 21 and the Countryside Teams. Formal education in Easington is well served with 29 Universities. The recovering coastal environment of nursery, primary and secondary schools (DCC Durham presents a unique opportunity to regional website, 2003). The main further education facility is universities and colleges for its unique geological, provided by East Durham and Houghall Community ecological and cultural/social interest. It is also of College in Peterlee. interest in the future development of the area’s post industrial society and economy. The local universities In addition there are community centres that offer of Durham, Sunderland and Newcastle have existing courses and training in coastal villages. There are a research on the coast. Fostering research activities in number of informal education activities in the the management unit can derive two fold benefits; management area. Durham County Council run a increasing the knowledge base for the Heritage range of projects, through schools, related to Coast and so providing hard data with which to base sustainable development such as Agenda 21 and Eco management decisions, and strengthening the ties Schools. with local communities. Published research in addition raises the profile of the project on a The Discovery Centre at Seaton Holme showcases national and internal scale. local arts and crafts Interpretation. Turning the Tide provided a range of Groundwork works in schools and with adults for interpretation materials around the management formal and informal education. They implement area. This interpretation takes the form of signage programmes based around the improvement of the boards and area improvements with local artwork. physical environment. Similar community education There is no focal interpretation facility for the is conducted in south Sunderland by The Durham Heritage Coast. A local display at Seaton Holme Wildlife Trust and Community Environmental provides some history of the local villages. Educational Development (CEED) (K.Johnson, pers Enhancement of current interpretation provision is comm.). required in the Ryhope area, north of Seaham; and for linking into the attractions of Hart Warren and White Lea farm at Easington Colliery is run by the North Sands. Potential also exists for augmenting National Trust. This facility is presently used as a base links to adjacent areas of interest such as White Lea for outdoor education. There is a further Farm a National Trust educational facility, Castle interpretation centre being developed in a barn on Eden Dene, and Seaham Harbour as well as Beacon Hill. In the longer term the Trust has plans strengthening the links to Christian Heritage and the for a large scale residential facility aimed at history of the coast. In addition a dedicated Heritage community and life long learning (D.Rooney, pers Coast website went online in March 2004. This is a comm.). The Great North Forest Project likewise has valuable resource and a source of local information a facility close to Seaham that provides community for residents and visitors. activities connected to the Great North Forest Project (Great North Forest, 2003).

Until 2002 there was a coastal centre based at Seaham harbour. This was financially supported by the Countryside Agency with other organizations through a partnership. The centre provided facilities for schools groups but closed down in 2002. Re- establishing a large central interpretation and education centre is a priority for the project. In addition to these established facilities there are local community centres in villages and local libraries providing opportunity for display and activities.

59 A19 DURHAM HERITAGE COAST Seaham Hall INTERPRETATION PROVISION

Seaton Seaham

Dawdon Dalton- le-Dale Murton A182

Hawthortn Hive

Shippersea Bay

A182

Easington Waterfall Interpretation boards at the coast

A1086 Horden Point A19

Shotton Horden North Colliery Dene Mouth Peterlee Sea Blackhall Colliery

Blackhall A181 Rocks Wingate Castle Eden Monk Crimdon Hesleden Park

A1086

A19

A179 N

Signage

Well used interpretation feature at Seaham

Issue Negative consequences

Poor provision of adult and lifelong learning Low capacity in community

Low opportunity for non traditional education Low capacity in community

Interpretation facilities require rationalisation At present not of a good standard along coast to attract and more local focus tourism Lack of main interpretation facility for coast Difficult to attract visitors

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS

E1 Work with Partners and community to resolve conflicts E2 Develop series of widely accessible interpretation and educational material to engage communities E3 Develop and promote targeted events programmes E4 Promote integrated signage for interpretation of the coast E5 Promote and provide regular platform for community partners to discuss local and wider coastal issues E6 Support and develop community training programme through Heritage Coast programme R20 Provide support and input into local regeneration partnerships

60 PART THREE CHAPTER TWELVE Strategic Programme for Durham Heritage Coast

The following sections deal with the actions understanding of changes and recovery rates at the required to achieve integrated management of the coast. coastal management unit and includes Approach resourcing, monitoring and review. There are existing measures and mechanisms for conservation of natural resources on the coast with a number of plans and guidance. The Heritage Coast This plan will be implemented through an Action will support and promote implementation and Plan. The Management Plan and the Action Plan provide guidance on issues. Work programmes will cover the five year period from 2005-2010. The plan be directed by the needs identified in such will be subject to an annual review to assess targets documents and milestones. Prior to the end of the five year period it is recommended that a full strategic review Implementation is carried out and the management plan re-directed The Heritage Coast can provide guidance, initiate and prioritised for a further five-year period. and support projects concerned with natural Reviews should also take place in the event of issues resource use in collaboration with partner arising from major change, such as revisions to organisations by grant application, profile raising European, international or national legislation. An and development of activities in coastal Annual Business Plan for the partnership will be communities. drawn up that reflects all partner contributions. Physical implementation of projects will occur through the partners own organisations procedures 2. SUPPORT AND INITIATE THE PRODUCTION and processes. With joint works a lead partner will AND IMPLEMENTATION OF DEVELOPMENT be appointed. Monitoring and indicators of success are considered in tables in this chapter. Regular PLANS AND PROJECTS FOR CULTURAL AND project and team reviews are undertaken by the HISTORICAL RESOURCES officer support group which is composed of representatives of funding agencies each quarter. In The management area has a rich culture and history addition a quarterly Partnership group meeting is but at present suffers from lack of management and held. guidance or low coordination. There is high potential to develop such resources in the context of STRATEGIC PROGRAMME the coasts development.

The period 2005-2006 will concentrate on the Outcome following strategic elements. These are chosen as An informed and culturally aware local population. achievable objectives to take the Heritage Coast Improved understanding of cultural heritage and its onto its next review in 2008 role in the coast’s development and protection and the interpretation of these resources. Increasing profile and strengthening the identity of the 1. SUPPORT AND INITIATE THE PRODUCTION management area and its attractiveness for visitors. AND IMPLEMENTATION OF MANAGEMENT PLANS AND PROJECTS FOR NATURAL Approach By strengthening existing plans and providing RESOURCES initiative for a scoping study of the management area to assess needs. Cultural and historical resources Natural resources of regional, national and will also be considered in the tourism framework international significance exist in the management where interpretation plans will be developed using area. Developing management and guidance and these attributes. ensuring policy implementation is of paramount importance in ensuring a quality product for local Implementation communities, developing interest for tourism and Heritage Coast will use recommendations from the oven’s long term protection and sustainability. existing and developing (tourism) plans and in consultation with local communities to bring Outcome historical and cultural attributes into a coastal Integrated and well-managed natural landscape for context. Resources, external funding and use of the long-term health. Increased recognition of the partnership skills base will facilitate development of management area as a significant site and a model a programme. for good environmental management. Fuller

61 3. COMPLETE THE REGENERATION OF 5. EDUCATION, ADVOCACY AND TRAINING COASTAL AREAS Provision of education and training for coastal The original work of Turning the Tide concentrated communities is an essential component of any on removal of structures and cleaning beaches. This strategy in terms of providing local stewardship of work remains incomplete and there are a number of coastal resources and long term sustainability. sites identified in this report and in the action plan Engaging society in management and decision where regeneration is required to bring the coastal making provides firmer foundations for the area up to a consistent standard in the management responsible use of the management area. area. Economic regeneration is also a priority for the management area and projects to improve capacity Outcome and capabilities in coastal communities will be Improvements of socio-economic and environmental developed and supported. benefit resulting from involvement in coastal resource management Outcome Consistency in the provision of a quality product in Approach the management area, provision of gateway sites Research and analysis that has been and will be along the coast and improvements in socio economic conducted in the management unit is used in and environmental benefits to local communities. education, training and advocacy programmes. This method gives synergy between the two elements Approach and a sound foundation for activities The provision of gateway sites on the Heritage Coast Research and analysis must be reactive to the needs will provide welcoming access conditions for local of Heritage Coast objectives. It will trial policies, people and visitors increasing use and enjoyment of methodology and existing mechanisms and the area. Regeneration efforts will use local needs arrangements for involvement in coastal resource (community; social/economic and environmental) as management and to evaluate effectiveness and a focus for their design and implementation. refine approach Durham Heritage Coast Partnership will approve final work programme. External sources will be Education and Advocacy. Dissemination of results accessed to complete regeneration work on the through documentation (both scientific and coast popular), training and technical support to encourage the understanding and demand for Implementation community involvement in coastal resource Implementation of regeneration projects will be management methods managed by local authorities. Coordination of work programmes and schedules will be coordinated by Implementation Durham Heritage Coast Management Unit with Durham Heritage Coast Partnership has the guidance from the Partnership. Gateway sites will be opportunity to use a wide range of resources from branded with Durham Heritage Coast interpretation the partners and other associates of the project. The material. project is multidisciplinary and works to strengthen and promote linkages between sectors and organizations. 4. DEVELOPMENT OF SUSTAINABLE TOURISM The Heritage Coast management team acts as a Tourism for economic, social and environmental facilitator steering programme needs. It is important change can be a powerful ally and tool in resource to analyse and present work through dissemination management regimes. It provides economic benefits activities and mechanism such as forums, while encouraging local stewardship over resources. presentations and seminars as well as The Heritage Coast Sustainable Tourism Plan will documentation such as newsletters and website. provide an action plan to be adopted and Further dissemination will be facilitated through the implemented over the life of this management plan formation of ad hoc working groups. Research will be conducted by partners and local Universities. Outcome The addition of livelihoods and economic benefits to marginalized communities. The protection of local 6. PARTNERSHIP WORKING/COMMUNITY labour markets and the management area’s INVOLVEMENT resources. Working with partners and local communities Approach reinforces the multi-sectoral approach of the The recommendations of the Sustainable Tourism management regime and its ongoing development. Plan to be used as a base for developing low impact It further reduces areas of conflict and increases tourism. understanding. The multi disciplinary nature of stakeholders allows access to a wide range of skills, Implementation knowledge bases and financial sources. Implemented through Partnership working and influencing of the North East Regional Tourism Strategy.

62 streams are likely to change over time and are not indicated against individual actions. Contributions from these external streams are included in annual business plans for the Heritage Coast Partnership.

Monitoring and Review

MANAGEMENT APPROACH Monitoring of the progress of the Management Plan and its associated Action and Business Plans will be through the presentation of progress reports to Steering Group meetings. These reports will use the Action Plan as a framework that establishes targets, and the Annual Business Plan that demonstrates how, when and by whom target delivery is achieved. The Coastal Forum will receive an annual report which will demonstrate the past years achievements and the plans for the coming year. Clear indicators of success (for the delivery of projects and for the well- being of the Heritage Coast) are included in this Outcome chapter. These aim to provide a framework for Improved understanding between sectors, monitoring progress and plan implementation. involvement of communities and increased chance Monitoring the improvements to the management of success of project implementation over the longer area will be through the use of appropriate and term. measurable indicators.

Approach Reporting back to local communities is pivotal to the Using the mechanisms described in the governance success of the plan and mechanisms to communicate structure in Chapter 1 will ensure appropriate means research and project development are embodied in for fuller stakeholder involvement. This is reinforced the provision of an annual forum, stakeholder by education and advocacy activities in local groups and representation on village level communities and representation at strategic and partnerships as well as an annual progress report, local level by management unit. flyers, regular newsletter and website.

Implementation Setting appropriate indicators must be based around Implementing the structure of the partnership and existing measurables and monitoring strategies. its terms of reference, monitoring its success over the Establishing baselines to which performance is next four years will provide for improved and compared is key to this process. Many indicators for increased stakeholder involvement. Regular individual sectors and resource use exist and are feedback to communities at appropriate fora and collected for day-to-day activities. Developing an the promotion of an inclusive participatory ongoing monitoring system based around a set of approach to management. indicators can assess effectiveness of the management area and this plan Resourcing Indicators must be Secure funding for the core management team is currently in place until 2005 provided by the Meaningful Countryside Agency, Durham County Council, The Measurable City of Sunderland and the District of Easington. Achievable Proposals arising from the Action Plan and the Simplified annual Business Plan will require resourcing through Consistent with objectives the Partners and the Management Team. Of some Have a baseline concern is the longer term funding required to ensure that the management of the Heritage Coast Although incomplete information exists at present matches the aspirations of the Partnership. Efforts of regarding resources and issues this should not the Heritage Coast Team will be geared towards prevent development of action plans. It is important longer term funding beyond 2005. not to postpone decisions awaiting perfect data. Using the best available information and the Projects that require additional funds outside of core precautionary principle is a well-tested strategy, and cost for Heritage Coast activities are accessed where information is lacking we will use this through external funding streams. Successful project principle for the Durham Heritage Coast. bids through the Millennium Commission (as TTT enhancement funds), through the Heritage Lottery The following tables provide indicators adopted for Fund and potentially through Interreg and other EU the Durham Heritage Coast. funds provide longer-term security for project activities. In addition smaller sums can be accessed through the partnership and other bodies. These

63 There are two aspects to monitoring the Durham Heritage Coast and there must be appropriate indicators set for each. The aspects where Use of Indicators monitoring is required are; 1. Progress towards protection and sustainable use of the coast e.g in terms of protecting rare species and habitats, creating jobs or improving landscape quality the social conditions of coastal communities.

2. The success or effectiveness of the management approach. In this case Integrated Coastal Zone Management e.g measuring the amount of partnership working, community involvement and multi-sectoral approaches.

INDICATORS OF THE HEALTH OF THE MANAGEMENT AREA

Headline Indicator Indicator Responsible Agency

Ecological integrity Extent of designated areas in English Nature favourable condition Durham Wildlife Trust Net loss and gains to biodiversity Loss to protected areas or species

Coastal waters and rivers good or fair quality Environment Agency and conform to Water Framework Directive

Number of pollution incidents Environment Agency

Speed and success of pollution response Environment Agency

Dangerous substances detected in coastal waters Environment Agency

Freshwater Water courses good / fair quality Environment Agency

Concentration of nutrients in water Environment Agency

Seas and coasts Compliance with Bathing Waters Directive Environment Agency

Biodiversity in coastal and marine areas English Nature

Erosion District of Easington

Cost spent on defence District of Easington/ City of Sunderland

Landscape and Wildlife Net loss of land to development English Nature

Amount of grassland successfully under Landowners reversion and managed

Trends in biodiversity (Biodiversity Action Plans) Durham Biodiversity Action Plan Partnership English Nature

Access to countryside Local Authorities/Countryside Agency

Native species at risk English Nature

Historic and Cultural Number of protected sites English Heritage/Local Authorities

Number of interpretation facilities Durham Heritage Coast Partnership and site enhancements

Economic development Number of male and females in employment Local Authorities

Number of non working households Local Authorities

Number of apprenticeship training in the workplace Local Authorities

Local investment Local Authorities

64 INDICATORS OF THE HEALTH OF THE MANAGEMENT AREA

Headline Indicator Indicator Responsible Agency

Numbers of visitors to coast One NorthEast Tourism

Anti social activities Number of access conflicts Durham Heritage Coast Partnership (Landowners)

Number of prosecutions for antisocial activities Environment Agency/Police

Results of beach watch surveys Durham Heritage Coast Partnership

Education Number adult classes available Local Authorities

Qualifications at age 19 Local Authorities (e.g. 5 GCSE (C grade) and above)

School and life long learning provision Local Authorities

Tourism and recreation Increases in number of visitors and origin of visitors One NorthEast Tourism

Increases in usage of coastal paths and One NorthEast Tourism cycle ways, bridleways

Number of accommodation provision on coast One NorthEast Tourism

Income and employment directly from tourism Local Authorities

Poverty and social exclusion Number at working age without qualifications Local Authorities

Number of workless households Local Authorities

Children in families with low incomes Local Authorities

Housing Number of substandard housing Local Authorities

Number of council housing Local Authorities

INDICATORS OF SUCCESS OF MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME

Headline Indicator Indicator

Partnership working Number of projects conducted as a partnership

Number of projects funded through partnership

Spread of partnership projects by sector

Influence on local plans Number and spread of plans regionally and locally with mention of Heritage Coast objectives

Community involvement Level and attendance on Heritage Coast steering group and fora

Number of Heritage Coast activities with community involvement

Number of community members involved at decision making level

65 atalyst or future activity this is an existing Indicates whether C dvocate A E A Role of E/F staff unit staff Staff unit role, Staff or as xecutive, E DoE (and partners) forward with Possible Lead taking actions responsibility for suggested partners organisation to take in terms of impact if these Level of Priority High to Low actions were NOT undertaken When the action will Timeframe for actions Timeframe start and the duration Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action English Nature Hartlepool Borough Council Local Authorities Plans Local Transport North East Sea Fisheries Committee National Trust Northumbria Water One North East Primary Care Trusts Royal Society for the Protection of Birds rates and future Understanding of ErosionEarly warning of hazards 2005-ongoingImproved data for management options H Outcome EN HBC LandownersLA's All coastal landowners LTP's NESFC NT NWL ONE PCT's RSPB Expected long term Where policies and actions overlap and may serve more than one strategy, they are omitted when already they are than one strategy, more and may serve policies and actions overlap Where it engenders that the programme approach By the multi-sectoral repetition. to avoid mentioned elsewhere attempted, for clarity to consider policy and actions have is difficult to consider issues in isolation. We under specific strategy headings and as they appear in the body of plan. outcome from these actions Monitoring of erosion and its impacts through Strategies due to erosion the Shoreline ManagementPlans and Local Coastal consequences for the coast meet policy Actions required to British Geological Survey Countryside Agency City of Sunderland Durham County Council Durham Heritage Coast Partnership District of Easington Durham Wildlife Trust Environment Agency English Heritage Policy Recommended Abreviations used Abreviations BGS CA CoS DBAPPDCC DEFRADHCP Durham Biodiversity Action Plan Partnership DoE DWT Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs EA EH programmes Physical Support regular monitoring Policy Recommendations Management action CHAPTER THIRTEEN Coast Heritage PLAN ACTION

66 A E C E C E E E E E Role of E/F staff unit staff (EN, HBC, CA) (DCC, CA, HBC) (CoS, DoE, DCC, HBC) (CoS, DoE, HBC) (and partners) Medium DoE 2004 2005-2006 High2005 ongoing Doe, CoS Medium DHCP Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action and retain undeveloped and "wild" feel of coast and ease of access management of area Understanding of erosionEarly warning of hazards Ongoing Improved data for High Habitat Enhancement CoS, DoE, HBC Reductions in any Improved use patterns Wider management consisency Improvements in safety Increased use of Ensure appropriate Integration of relevant plans 2005-ongoing High DHCP rates and future consequences for the coast to ensure consistency of objectives and approach between organisations Outcome protect existing dune system. habitat and species with options for action (some of this information available) in planning application Monitoring of erosion Monitoring of subsidence Develop local management Influence local plans to seek extension Heritage Coast Set up working group to Beach Safety audit and Ensure environmental and Representation at appropriate levels Input into of SMP and Strategies management options (SMP) and Local Coastal Strategies management reduce encroachmentin back dune areasBoundary to include Hartlepool dune and beach areas degradation of dune system the Shoreline Management Plans Ensure consistency and PRODUCTION & IMPLEMENTATION OF MANAGEMENT PLANS AND PROJECTS FOR NATURAL RESOURCES OF MANAGEMENT PLANS AND PROJECTS FOR NATURAL PRODUCTION & IMPLEMENTATION promote safe cliff and promote safe cliff programmes to manage sand dune system plan to enhance accretion and and protection of projects that improve andbeach access investigate safety issues for coastal developmentand planning applications vulnerable areas identified social coastal concerns are taken into account management area monitoring programmes and its impacts through Management plans andlocal coastal strategies through Heritage Coast objectives local coast strategy. improved coordination P4 Provide advisory point advisory P4 Provide P2 Support and develop and P2 Support P5 Influence Shoreline P3 Promote and support Physical P1 Support regular Policy Recommendations Management action Strategy 1.

67 A/C F A/C F E F EF E F Role of E/F staff unit staff (EN, Landowners, BGS) DBAPP, (EN Landowvers) BGS) CA, DBAPP, DBAPP, BGS DBAPP, CA (and partners) 2005-ongoing Medium (EN, Landowners) 2005-ongoing High DHCP 2005-2006 Medium DHCP, Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action on coast of significance geology engagement and of geological issues in knowledge base to base management planning documents and basis for future work Improved understandingImproved data on which 2005-ongoing Medium (EN, Landowners) Improve knowledge of Raise profile of coast Improve protection Allow geological resources to be more accessible Improved consideration Improved integration of issues Improved public appreciationImproved management 2005-2007 Medium DHCP Improved community geological sites options local and regional Outcome Geological Survey report local programmes of work Use new British Provide assistance where Identify important sites requiring further study advice from Take Keep geology on agenda Representation at Review and reprint "Easington Incorporate Geology into Involve geology in activity programme Devise, implement and provide for Tourism Geology Trail Provide support "summer schools ” required for regular reviews appropriate level Education programmes Pack) (including Teachers appropriate controls County Geologist and in reviewing planning leaflet applications survey for new sites and Provide support and develop of important geologicalsites in consultation with in Heritage Coast literature, assessment and review appropriate bodies geologists (clubs, universities etc.) to encourage local research of new geological sites coastal planning teaching, education andtourism geology - Adventure in Time of geology and coast G2 Promote establishment G2 Promote G5 Engage with local G3 Integrate geology into G4 Promote geology for Geology regular G1 Support Policy Recommendations Management action

68 A F A F (EN, Landowners) Mineral Planning Authorities 2005-ongoing High (EN, Landowners) Improved protection and 2005-ongoingImproved site protection High DHCP understanding of and reduction in crime responsibilities Audit of sites and the Assess current misuse patterns legislation enforced and strengthened enforcement of existing penalties for unauthorised and prosecutions if required use of sites G6 Ensure SSSI controls are G7 Support and strengthen

69 C F A E C F Role of E/F staff unit staff (CA, EN, CoS, DCC, HBC) (EN, Landowners) Education Authorities) (EN, CA Landowners (and partners) 2005- ongoing High EN DHCP Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action negative impacts on coastal management of coastal and its recovery. and its recovery. Consistent and improvedQuality environment 2005-20010Utilise dormant quarry site Improved information MediumIncreased local involvement DHCP Wider circulation of information Negate or mitigate any Improved understanding of 2005-ongoing Medium DHCP protected landscapes and coastal in management activities. Outcome planning applications enforced, standards reachedand exceeded habitats Ensure existing habitats Clarify management options Complete land reversion Implement grassland Encourage universities with small student grant to undertake studies Liaise with agencies to develop and coordinate monitoring Disseminate information at appropriate levels Assess impact on coast of Representation at appropriate habitats Interpretation and education management plan with partners with landowners and managersprogramme for nature conservation habitat creation about management area Hawthorn Quarry site for guidance Assess future options for Produce codes of conduct and habitats and improve use patterns (flagship species and habitats) reduce threats to protected programmes to enhance and species legislation is processes to prevent & and protect habitats habitats landscape and coastalhabitats local, regional and national levels understanding of protected projects landscape and coastal H2 Influence local planning Natural Resources Natural Resources Coastal habitats H1 Develop and support H3 Promote value and Policy Recommendations Management action

70 A F A E E F Role of E/F staff unit staff community groups) NWL, EN, Landowners) (All partners) Landowners) (and partners) High DHCP and ongoing Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action over management area amongst communities monitoring local resources protection for beach habitats Encourage sense of ownership 2005-ongoingImprovements in environmental quality and safety for wildlife and humans Medium EA (DHCP, Allow recovery of beaches to 2005-ongoing MediumReduced littering on coast DBAPP EN, (DHCP, Improved visual appearance Engage community and 2005-2010Improve user patterns HighImprovements in pollution DHCP (HBC, CoS, DoE,Improved understanding 2005-2006 EImproved environmental High 2005 Improving capacity by F CoS, DoE, HBC, DCC, EA ADevelop responsibility F Gather long term data and use patterns background conditions and Ensure continued and improved Improve information base 2005-ongoing Medium DHCP (EA, EN universities E F Outcome curriculum e.g. Teachers & Adopt-a- Beach programmes and encourage tourism programme repeating TTT Develop coastal clean ups Assess impact on beach for Representation at appropriatelocal, regional and national level enhance sense of wildness Under Education and Literature and campaign Recycling project with schools Review current spill Literature targeted and Local coastal ranger trainingand developmentActivities /events for coastal stewardship and sense Engage Universities, colleges, of ownership Pack Agency to assess impacts on coast highlighting problemand community foster sense of ownership communitiesactive in local studymonitoring project (withschools/groups etc) providing training and skills for managing/ from community based projects included in schools Work with Environment Work Community monitoring local colleges anduniversities local schools and naturalists to be more to make management options and community groups) understanding of the value of protected landscapes and habitats appreciation and streams flowing into coastal programmes to monitor with community projects and pollution reducing Community Beach Watch sensitive clean up policies contingency arrangements control and procedures projects areas to prevent & reduce threatsto beach habitats planning applications H8 Develop and promote litter H9 Encourage environmentally by research H11 Encourage H10 Promote public H10 Promote H4 Support improvements H4 Support Beach habitats H7 Influence development plans Policy Recommendations Management action

71 CF EF Role of E/F staff unit staff groups, landowners) Local groups) DHCP, (and partners) High DHCP 2005-2008 Medium Universities (EN, EA, A/E F Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action of coast resources assessment appropriate use as activity increases. Pre-empt future problemsProtect localised invertebrate population. 2005-2006Improved knowledge of Mediumresource and issues Encouraging community to EN (local angler Protection of environmental, Ongoing Improvements in offshoreBeach debris and safety 2005-ongoingImprovements in threats to Medium EA, ENCAMS, (DHCP, A E, F Improved baseline on which Outcome assessments and assess for Heritage Coast Study describing present Conduct biological and Use local dive clubs for Sea-search projects to survey Continue to request results industry and Target Promote Blue Flag award Representation at inshore marine areas to inform policy makers on impacts conduct review of available information take responsibility for appropriate local, regionaland national level wildlife and monitor impact of bait digging levels use and future established advisory andconsultation role in planned development and activities of appropriate environmental potential consequences economic and visual assets into habitats and species oceanography surveys and disposal practices atsea (Law Of the Sea Convention andOSPAR) boat users award standards for bathing waters for wildlife and human and coastal water quality issues EN, DoE, CoS, HBC, NWL) H14 Ensure Partnership has H15 Promote cleaner H15 Promote H12 Promote studies to assess habitats Offshore investigations H13 Promote Policy Recommendations Management action

72 AF E F A FF A E Role of E/F staff unit staff Group, (EA, DHCP) Landowners, community groups) (and partners) Medium DHCP 2005-ongoing High Minewater Steering A/E E Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action improving sense of ownership over resources. and disposal of household, of, protects and enhances sustainable use based on long Improvements in consumption 2005 Improved protection and 2005-2006 MediumEngaging local community, EN, (DHCP) Development of local action 2005-ongoingand involvement HighEnsure best option for EA (DHCP, Compliance with EuropeanLegislation-prevents deterioration water resources, promotes 2005-ongoingterm protection, enhances and Highprotects through specific measures, ensure progressive reduction of groundwater pollution EA, (NWL, DHCP) and planning policies for Outcome s conducted for all ’ Partners for spatial planningfor coastal/marine areas land and marine areas targeted plans Durham Mine/water steering coast and local communities cost of waste" Education and awareness Utilise new SAC legislation Ensure SEA Improve partner working Continue representation on Ensure best options for coast Ensure public consultation Pressure on industry and proposed developments protection, work with Disposal campaigns – "The real industrial and at sea waste Local Environment AgencyPlans for river catchments with EA and community to produce locally economically and visually) are minimised. and community input understanding of marinelife and heritage campaigns protection to extend belowlow water through lobbying for greater integration of conservation working to ensure treatment of mine-waterimpacts (environmentally, group Framework DirectiveWater (2000/60/EC) and necessary users to ensure standards provisions to comply (end of 2015) achieved H17 Promote concept of coastal H20 Promote and support H18 Promote working with H19 Promote partnership H19 Promote H16 Promote greater public greater H16 Promote Policy Recommendations Management action

73 CF E F E F E E Role of E/F staff unit staff (CA, Landowners) (and partners) Medium DHCP Medium DHCP 2005- Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action for conservation of protected area objectives, tourism development Improved land management Protection of habitats and 2005-ongoingspecies MediumBetter dialogue and DHCP/DEFRA Diversification of market,Development of distinctive 2006-2007Improved understanding Mediumsupport for management DHCP 2005 objectives and support Outcome Discussion of options with Support where required Improved contact with Study of needs and options Set up working group involvinglocal farmers livelihood options for literature, involvement Targeted community and support for landowners through meetings, understanding of HC and its marketing. DHC products, improved project development and involvement e.g. Coastal Forum for programme s landscape and agriculture and take up ofagri-environment schemes landowners of local produce market for local produce development local landowners on value through Forum and other with local farmers. of land for conservationand options open to themin terms of the protected area ’ mechanisms, investigation of options available conservation value H24 Provide information to H22 Encouraging partnerships H22 Encouraging H21 Encourage diversification of H23 Encourage development H23 Encourage Policy Recommendations Management action

74 AE A F CF A E A/E F Role of E/F staff unit staff Universities, DHCP) RSPB, DHCP) Landowners, DHCP, EA) DHCP, (and partners) High (EN, DHCP) High DHCP) 2005-ongoing High RSPB, EN, (DWT, Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action of legal responsibilities management and monitoring of populations threats Continued improved Identification of vulnerable Improved understandingImproved protection 2005-ongoingImproved public appreciation High Improved benefits from 2005-ongoing EN, (Landowners, Medium- EN, (RSPB, Improved information basefor management decisions, greater local ownership 2006-ongoing MediumImprovements in coastal EN, (RSPB, Improved health of coastal 2005-ongoingincreased attractions for visitors Medium- EA, NWL,EN Outcome and existing levels of enforcement and prosecutionHigh priority is little tern and controls initiate research and management into vulnerable areas and species Provide assistance and Investigate gaps and deviselocal action plans sites and species action Review existing legislation taken to protect/mitigate Use education programmes Develop targeted literatureEngage local bird-watching Provide tourism and responsibility information on bird watching Assess use and provision of bird hides Engage with colleges and Engage local fisher communityin monitoring programmes over resources Liase with EA and NWL regards Ensure high standards are Assess impact on wildlife of poor water quality universities to encourage aimed for within present legalframework wildlife legislation to protect species and sites attitudes to species clubs Nature Tourism and research of key species populations by appropriate bodies and encourage responsible understanding of birds research into fisheries impacts on local bird life research improvements in coastalwater quality monitoring and water quality. water quality S4 Promote and support and S4 Promote S5 Support monitoring and S2 Promote use of existing S3 Promote improved S3 Promote Species Birds management S1 Support Policy Recommendations Management action

75 A F A F C/A F Role of E/F staff unit staff Universities, DHCP) DBAPP (and partners) Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action Habitat enhancement andImproved use patterns and 2005-ongoing HighImproved habitat and speciesintegrity (EN, Landowners) 2005-ongoing HighImproved baseline data and (EN, Landowners) 2005-ongoing High EN (DWT, Outcome providing financial or other assistance as required Provide assistance to local Conduct community education programmes Ensure RoW and pathways Plan creation of new habitats within coastal areas Engage local education and Disseminate and publicise as far as possible required e.g. increases in numbers and distributionof key species experts in research projects, ownership by local communities invertebrate populations rockrose distribution planning. management regimes thatprotect and enhance management schemes where species diversity and health. management that reducespopulation isolation andcreates new habitat patches consider ecological impacts on populations S7 Promote and support S8 Promote research to assess Invertebrates appropriate S6 Support Policy Recommendations Management action

76 AF C/E F A/E F C/A F A/C F Role of E/F staff unit staff DHCP) (EN, DWT, DHCP) (EN, DWT, DHCP) (DBAPP, DBAPP DBAPP DHCP) DWT, DBAPP DWT, DHCP) DWT, (and partners) 2006-2009 Medium Newcastle University, A2006-ongoing F Medium2005-ongoing EN, (Universities, High EN (Universities, 2005-ongoing High (EN EA DWT, Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action for management management of marine/ decisions locally and nationally coastal wildlife marine/coastal areas. Improved baseline data Engaging local communities of ownership Widening network of management by involving specialist researchers As above As above Improved protection and 2005-ongoingAs above Medium NESFC Improved spatial planning,public understanding of 2005- ongoing Medium EN, (DHCP) Outcome booklet Using community data Request existing marine Engage with marine Conduct sightings projects Codes of conduct Section in wildlife of coast of threats at policy Awareness level by representation at appropriate levels Openly support with Representation at local, Campaign e.g. Pollution and litter awareness Booklet about coastal and Enforce existing legislation Lobby for improved protection,clarification of responsibilitybelow low water Improved integration between sectors mammals research e.g. aerial surveys to regional and national levels gathering approach include Durham Coast and improving sense marine wildlife "cost of litter" highlighting threats to marine species wider audience patterns legal instruments research to assess use assess movements in a UK context mammal research bodies aim to reduce drift net and fisheries competition Heritage Coast projects protection under SAC legislation and other marine reduction programmes S12 Support projects that S14 Develop wider marine S13 Promote litter and pollution S10 Develop wider network to Marine mammals S9 Promote and encourage S11 Promote information to Policy Recommendations Management action

77 A F Role of E/F staff unit staff (EN, DHCP) (EN, DWT, DHCP) (EN, DWT, DBAPP (and partners) 2005-ongoing Medium Sea Fisheries Committees, A F 2005-ongoing High DEFRA, Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action management, healthier environment sustainability and Improved levels of Improvements in public use 2005 -ongoingDemand for over harvested HighMore viable species Sea Fisheries Committees, AImproved habitat F resource management Outcome Assess fishery concerns Integrate sustainable Make information more of alternative Promote offering Ensure appropriate SEA/ EIA fishery policy into planning marine and coastal consumption alternatives accepted its potential impacts to fish habitat and population community through education and events Engage local angling sustainable fishing controls interpretation programmesfor general public toencourage wider widely available on fisheryunderstanding and appreciation of importance of fish-species conflicts and harvesting of species and wider managed) species for concerns (more sustainable / better appreciation of fishery species reduction. concerns and species use. DHCP) (EN, DWT, DBAPP and practices impacts of activities on habitats and populations for new development and/or maintenance and Fish Species S15 Support appropriate S17 Promote consideration of S16 Support education & Policy Recommendations Management action

78 A F A F E F Role of E/F staff unit staff DHCP Landowners, DHCP) DWT, DBAPP DWT, Landowners) (and partners) High EN (DWT, 2005-ongoing Medium (EN, Landowners) Ongoing 2005-ongoing Medium DHCP (EN, Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action partnership working enhancement, improved management and management. appreciation and use patterns. Habitat and species Improved coastal Improved information, Outcome management from removal of gorse at vulnerable grassland sites Identified appropriate Undertake controlled, advice on best Take Annual activities programme Education and literature Activities e.g. local plant monitored and managed introduction programme photography competition programmes for identified species and areas management and species to suitable areas consistency of approachalong management area appropriate bodies e.g. support and initiate significance appreciation of floral S20 Encourage wider S19 Support protection, Flora S18 Support re-introduction Policy Recommendations Management action (*Flagship species help to protect a variety of non BAP species)

79 A F E F A F C F A C/E F Role of E/F staff unit staff (EN, CoS, DCC, (EN, CoS, DCC, (EH, ONE, COS, DOE HBC, Landowners) (EN, CoS, DCC, plus (community groups) (EH , DHCP) HBC, DCC, Landowners) HBC, Landowners) HBC, Landowners) (and partners) Medium As, C1 2006-ongoing Medium DHCP 2005-Ongoing Medium DHCP 2005-2007 Low2005 DHCP 2005-ongoing High DHCP Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action of local archaeology, Improved partnership working for the coast. tourism, protection and enhancement of local history and identity Improved management Consistency of approach Community focussed Improved baseline and Developing and strengthening As above Improved information for 2005-ongoingDevelopment of "story" MediumImprovements in visitor and CoS, DoE,HBC, development of resources, management options economic benefits. options. Outcome working group guidelines between appropriate groups programme and evaluation impact for management strategy and implement sustainable tourism plan Set up coastal archaeology Draw up and agree Help develop and provide Implement cultural/historical plan Develop regular monitoring Develop volunteer base to Through working with group Develop volunteer base Through Shoreline Develop interpretation Conduct audit to identify areas of restoration and enhancement through working group undertake some of this coastal ownership support for community Coastal Strategy include impacts on historical resources projects SUPPORT PRODUCTION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF DEVELOPMENT PLANS AND PROJECTS FOR CULTURAL AND HISTORIC RESOURCES OF DEVELOPMENT PLANS AND PROJECTS FOR CULTURAL PRODUCTION AND IMPLEMENTATION SUPPORT coordinated approach at the coast condition at sites interpretation and recordingof selective disused structures activities and a coordinated approach protection of surviving industrial and war structuresfor interpretation recommendations from of the area tourism programmes in DHC to archaeological recording protect, enhance and programmes of erosionscars (particularly in sensitive areas) Management Plan and promote the historical and cultural importance C2 Support projects that projects C2 Support C3 Encourage monitoring of monitoring C5 Promote C4 Promote the preservation, C6 Promote the restoration and C1 Recognise and promote a Policy Recommendations Management action Strategy 2.

80 E F C F C F Role of E/F staff unit staff community groups, (EH, Universities, DHCP) HBC anglers, DoE, Universities, CoS) (DoE, DHCP) (and partners) 2005-ongoing Low DHCP ( EH, NESFC 2005-ongoing Medium DCC, CoS Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action and identity e.g. fishing strengthen image and story Strengthen community Retain local traditions Improve information base, 2005-2006Useful for tourism development Medium DCC, CoS and local ownership Outcome and activities Through working group Study of history fishing Use results for education Survey and audit of sites Add to Sites and Monuments Record Implement EH guidelines for protection of coast. Add to important Maritime Heritage project assets in management area, management archaeology for conservation of sites of history e.g. fishing forcultural interpretation and culture in area protection of maritime marine and coastal voluntary agreements and liaison C8 Promote the conservation C7 Encourage the use of C9 Promote recording and recording C9 Promote Policy Recommendations Management action

81 E E / F E/C E/F C /E E&F A/C E Role of E/F staff unit staff Partnerships, CA, One, Seaham Harbour Dock Company) (CoS, DoE, HBC, DCC, (CoS, DoE, HBC, DCC, CA, One, Seaham Harbour Dock Company) DoE, CoS) Regeneration DoE, HBC (DHCP) CoS, Local Police (and partners) High DHCP (DCC, 3. Horden 1. Dawdon 2005-2006 High DHCP 2005- ongoing High Local Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action people, More visually appealing areas,improved quality of life 2005-2006/2007 HighImproved areas to promote DHCP 4. Seaham Harbour As above Improved understanding Clarification of roles for Physical and personal coastalBetter participation in issues, 2005 Improved base for tourism As above, Improved quality of life Improved base for tourism area, Outcome at coast and guidelines for at vulnerable sites Provide a dedicated HeritageCoast ranger service to strengthen existing and environment for localAudit signage and furniture 2. Crimdon Draw up clear agreements on Develop white on brown signage for Heritage Coast Access working group to Access working group set up with village level Work Facilitate community based Provide security camera cover neglected areas of coast landowner activities for tourism responsibility for maintenance maintenance for Sunderland section Physical improvement at hotspots regeneration partnerships design of consistent, uniqueproduct of coast and management hotspots (audit) projects identify issues and pinpoint security improved to develop community policing in coastal communities, Improve rundown and UNDERTAKE PHYSICAL AND SOCIAL REGENERATION OF COASTAL AREAS OF COASTAL PHYSICAL AND SOCIAL REGENERATION UNDERTAKE and concept of quality gateway sites initiatives that improve security R15 Support projects and T2 Promote the provision Policy Recommendations Management action Strategy 3.

82 E F A/C F E E A F E F Role of E/F staff unit staff s A F s) DCC, CoS, HBC, DoE, CoS, (DoE, DHCP, (DoE, DHCP, (DHCP, DCC, CoS, (DHCP, CA) PCTs (DCC, CoS, RA) HBC, CA, EA, Sustrans) HBC, CA) HBC, CA) ’ (CA, LTP (and partners) High’ Sub regional LTP Medium DHCP (DoE, High DHCP, Underway in 2005/2006communities Medium DCC, CoS 2005-ongoing High DHCP Ongoing Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action ownership of coast. transport system and health impacts Improved transport links,Employment opportunities local Ongoing As above Improvements in amenity on coast Visual Promote tourism, economic 2006-ongoingMore sustainable use of Medium DHCP (DCC, Improve appreciation andProvides base for tourism Ongoing Outcome Tourism recommendations Tourism into planning process programme agenda winter tourism (e.g. angling) Keep rail halt on Lobby for improved transportProvide information when required investment tourism Develop interpretation strategy for rail halts under Sustainable Strategy Tourism Ensure wildlife landscape considerations taken into account Keep integrated transport Build into projects Community health and Cycle hire encourage local business, Anti pollution campaign Investitage opportunity and Investigate opportunities for Formalise partnership input Regular communicaton Implement Sustainable exercise projects e.g. cycling,campaigns environmental quality, on Partnership agenda for management area and interpretation of existing built structures for interpretation transport plans for increased and improved encourage users to of transport established input into such as rail halts and bridges integrated transport plans tourism related transport feasibility of summer bus trails boost to communities rail provision choose sustainable modes walking, running projects, Local Transport Plans Local Transport R1 Promote improved local improved R1 Promote R5 Ensure Heritage Coast has R2 Support and promote R3 Promote and actively sustainable R4 Promote R6 Promote improvements R6 Promote Policy Recommendations Management action

83 C/E E/F A/E F A/C F E/A F Role of E/F staff unit staff (DHCP, Cos, Doe, (DHCP, community groups) (Landowners) (Landowners) action groups, CA, DCC (DoE, local disabled CA, EA, DHCP) Cos, DoE, HBC HBC) (and partners) 2005-ongoing High Landowners Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action resources to wider community, responsibilities Action plan for coast agreed,Improved and wider use of coast, Improved environment and 2005-2007 High DHCP, Wider access, improved facilities, 2005- ongoingOpening of Heritage Coast Conform to recent legislative High DCC, CoS, HBC, Improved safety and Improved environmental andImplications for tourism 2005-2006 High DHCP Outcome issues routes and identify actions reduction in access conflicts through Access working group coastal use safety concerns Working group to assess Working Audit condition of access Define actions with consultation to resolve and trial solutions Rationalise access arrangements on coast Implement Bridleways study Conduct consultation through Identify appropriate areas Begin programme of Identify areas of concern Develop projects to address Identify scale of problem Education campaign Lobby authorities to use existing legislation and introduce byelaws penalty scheme Trial Monitor and review results that require improvements improvements required working groups on Access through Access working group public health conditions, Safety Council Representation at NE Beach security and beach safety improvements in that complete conditions of access routes for abled and projects to improve disabled access projects that improve controls over dog use and coastal impacts R8 Promote and initiate and R8 Promote R9 Develop and support R7 Support projects R7 Support R10 Promote improved R10 Promote Policy Recommendations Management action

84 A F A F A/C F E F Role of E/F staff unit staff Landowners, Police (ENCAMS, DCC, Seaham Harbour groups) community (CoS, DoE, H&C, DHCP, Dock Company DoE, DHCP) DHCP, community groups) (DHCP, (and partners) High DHCP Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action reduction in crime. and engagement in countryside activities, improved use of coast, Improved environmental andEmployment for local people 2005- Improved use patterns implications Tourism Better quality of environment,Improved sense of 2005-Ongoing implications Tourism High EA Better environmental appeal, implications Tourism 2005-ongoingImproved coastal presence, HighImproved appearance 2005-ongoing EA (CoS, DoE, HBC, High Local Partnerships Outcome s ’ for fly-tipping and cleaner disposal options responsibility for resources, Lobby to extend powers of Engage local community in Local campaigns Wider provision of recycling Enforcement by EA and Better disposal facilities heavily effected Closing off areas on trial basis Prosecution for offenders Lobby for extension in investigative powers to LA Lobby for introduction of Provide support and resources Expand and use existing anti litter activities (Beach Adopta-beach etc) Watch, local authorities for dealing visual appeal and conditions. ongoing local authorities schemes such as Street Wardens tourism and security, service with litter in urban areas Publicise convictions Heritage Coast Warden/Ranger implications better disposal options controls of littering andoffenders fine system Community Policing andwardening programmes where required projects to reduce littering of coast R13 Promote improved R13 Promote R12 Promote and encourage R14 Promote and support R11 Develop and promote Policy Recommendations Management action

85 E F C/E F E E Role of E/F staff unit staff DHCP, community DHCP, groups) Groundwork, Regeneration CoS, DoE, HBC, EA, CA, EN, Landowners) Partnerships) (and partners) High DHCP 2005-2007 High Landowners (DHCP) A/C E 2005- Ongoing High (CoS, DoE, HBC, DCC, E/C F Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action appeal and environmental opportunities, and residents, improved use of coast of coastal communities, Improved economic improved skills base, improvements in attitude As above Strengthen identity of areaimproved orientation for visitor 2006-2010 HighCommunity engagement and DHCP (ONE, DCC, 2005-ongoing HighPartnership working, regular ENCAMS, (NWL, Ongoing re-building confidence in Outcome tourism strategy identify related litter actions to highlight sewage ownership, improved visual training programmes Support education and with local groups in Work Countryside training for localcommunities Facilitate access to communitygrant funds coastal communities, Support local projects such as to coast (coast as asset not Business-Link and other SME training Investigate tourism related livelihoods Access working group to Develop most appropriate dumping ground) wardens for area). Monitor changes Within interpretation and Develop tourist "Heritage Coastal interpretation centre and satellite interpretation areas Use Beach-watch and other local Local campaigns for improveddisposal (E.g. "Bag it and Bin It") quality of coast Regular attendance Help to develop activities withinEncourage partnership working contact with community, community initiatives of the Coast Coast Route" and "Story" ILM training sewage related litter amenities plans (e.g. barriers, CCTVs, partnerships regeneration frameworks opportunity to facilitate to sites of interest communities of programme improvements to localfeatures and access routes features and areas to develop local action to reduce into local regeneration build local capacity and capabilities in improvements in qualityand security of car parking identify vulnerable area R17 Develop and promote development R18 Promote support and R19 Promote R20 Provide support and input R16 Support projects that projects R16 Support Policy Recommendations Management action

86 E/C E C E/F C/E F C/E E Role of E/F staff unit staff (EN, CoS, DoE, community groups) HBC, EA) (and partners) ongoing DoE, CoS, HBC ongoing 2004- DHCP 2006-2010 DHCP 2005-ongoing Landowners, (CA, PCT, DHCP 2005 Police DHCP, 2005- Groundwork, DHCP, E/C E Low Medium High High Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action area and management, behavioural relationships resources use through strengthened, use of support for management Empowerment of local Economy of local area Health improvements, Improved understanding of Engagement of local Improvements in site Building relationships in Improvement quality of Improvements in behaviour Medium Closer community working Outcome and provide advice support (financial/otherwise). with protected area, improve coastal and cycleways rangers environmental input into Develop links with local Develop specific projects- Support coastal ILM project Engage with local dive clubs Identify appropriate Run events such as fun runsand coastal cycle trips walks (sponsored dog walk) in behaviour relating to coast Link with local initiatives Retain anti social issues high on Source funding for community officer terms of crime reduction Provide support and input Develop projects to harness support for Heritage Coast promote health. communities, improvements agendaresource of local communities life of local people in and promote, develop e.g. canoe, cycle hire facilities and walk coastal pathway use areas resources to use of the protected area Provide support where possible communities, using the protected area the cultural and natural the anti social behaviourproblems as they relate to such as anti social behaviour unit (working group formed) management. better health e.g. cycling community projects and communities to improve into partnerships promoting improved of community, communities without initiatives that improveand increase capacity and capability in local partners in capacity building communities, improved where possible the qualityof life local communities the protected area as a resource. management of Iand and character of the protectedarea for the coast with partners, projects compromising the utilize the protected areaas a livelihood option,e.g. local produce, tourism and anglers, investigate activities develops, improve cycle route livelihood options as tourismprojects that encourage regeneration, improved protected area for social partnerships with local SE2 Develop projects that SE4 Support projects that tackle SE5 with partners in Work SE 1 Support and develop SE3 Support and develop Policy Recommendations Management action

87 Role of E/F staff unit staff (and partners) 2004 Groundwork DHCP, C/E E Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action for area Stronger community baseStronger community support Empowerment of local High Outcome and provide support where Scoping study of existing with local partners Work possible communities and communities community based projects initiatives and needs that relate to the coast SE6 Develop and promote Policy Recommendations Management action

88 E E/F EE Role of E/F staff unit staff (ONE, CoS, DoE, Partnerships) HBC, DCC) Regeneration CoS, DoE, HBC, Landowners, ONE) CA, CoS, DoE, HBC, DCC) Landowners, ONE) (and partners) 2005-ongoing High DHCP (CA, EN, EA Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action prospects, access European funding and develop projects economic boosts to area, improved employment conservation and management Enhance profile of the Heritage Coast Greater awareness of coastal Change in perceptions and Improved economic opportunities Enhance profile of Heritage Improve tourism opportunities 2005-ongoingImprovements in quality of HighHigher quality amenities, DHCP (Landowners, 2005-2008 E MediumEnhance HC profile, improve DHCP F Improve tourism opportunities 2006-2007Increased capacity on the coast High 2005 -2007Build capabilities in communities, DHCP (Landowners, High E DHCP (Groundwork, F C/E F experience engage local people in Outcome partners Seaham and provide satelliteinterpretation facilities down and environmental issues Education and interpretation Open main coastal centre at Link into other areas of Develop Heritage Coast website Implement appropriate activities Develop low impact tourism Develop European tourism Feed into NE regional tourismplans on European scale, improving Link into Sustrans and Redesign national cycle Develop nature tourism Heritage Coast rangers Monitoring projects, coastalRunning coastal centre cross border cooperation for environmental improvements, the coastinterest regionally for local communities use patterns projects base Develop gateway sites Develop cycling pathways DEVELOP COMMUNITY BASED AND SUSTAINABLE TOURISM (From DHCP Sustainable Tourism Plan) DHCP Sustainable Tourism TOURISM (From DEVELOP COMMUNITY BASED AND SUSTAINABLE and employment impactswith an emphasis on hospitality trade project through Interreg as a destination for quietrecreation as in sustainable tourism plan Coast,experiences that add tocultural and social life of local networkopportunities for youth quality of life for residents, ONE, Sustrans, EA) EH, EN, CA, commercial opportunitieswith sustainable economic provider programm communities on the coastbut interest visitors route through Sunderland through countryside management and interpretation participation and activities guides and develop volunteer objectives and raise profile (refer tourism plan) T5 Develop a range of T6 Develop and promote T4 Develop and promote T1 Promote Heritage Coast T3 Promote and market coast Policy Recommendations Management action Strategy 4.

89 F A F EE E F E/C F A/C F Role of E/F staff unit staff (DHCP, CoS, (DHCP, DoE, HBC, DCC Regeneration (Regeneration Partnerships, LTPs LTPs Business Link Partnerships) (Interreg (CA, EA, EN, CoS, DoE, CoS, HBC Partnerships DoE, HBC, Landowners) DoE, HBC, DCC) partners) (and partners) Medium DHCP 2005-2010 Medium DHCP 2005-ongoing High DHCP Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action communities, improved employment opportunities, cooperation place to live and visit, amenities for walking, cycling management of the coast development of more requirements on ICZM, recreation in communities Build capacity in local Engage communities in Improved economic and Improved access to jobs and Improved access for tourism 2006-2009Promotion of sustainability concept Improved visual appearance, HighImproved attractiveness as 2005-ongoingBuilding confidence DHCP LAs Medium Regeneration Improved health and vitality 2005-ongoingImproved support services Highfor health Meeting EU legal (CoS, PCT, DHCP, Joining cross border Access to European funding streams Improved management for 2007 Outcome schemes and general community initiative improvements exercise and use of coastal area of communities, improved and feasibility/acceptability Support community projects Business Link support Develop improved training Investigate alternative/ additional livelihood optionsfor communities, role of communities in tourism sustainable livelihoods Conduct scoping study of Clarify intervention options Support e.g. shop frontage Help develop projects and Develop projects that encourage Support local health initiatives use of coastal pathways Project European Tourism European Marine Audit of use patterns Audit zoning options bids from community for improvements opportunities employment opportunities, to built environment increase access to jobs local communities EU guidance and pending interpretation for skills development,confidence and capacitybuilding. through regeneration partnerships and other perspective in line with regulations on Sustainable and ICZM Tourism and for tourism sustainable transport to areas of concern improve the health of zoning options for area T8 Promote and develop T10 Promote programmes to T9 Promote improvements T9 Promote European T11 Develop T 12 Investigate potential for T7 Develop, opportunities T7 Develop, Policy Recommendations Management action In addition refer to Sustainable Tourism Action Plan 2004 In addition refer to Sustainable Tourism

90 E E E F E F E F Role of E/F staff unit staff

Regeneration CA, EN, EA) (Landowners, EA, CA, ONE) (Landowners, community groups, EA, CA) (CoS, DoE, HBC, DCC, (CoS, DoE, HBC, Partnerships, EN, CA, EA, NWL) CoS, DoE, HBC, DCC, (and partners) 2005-2006 High DHCP 2005-2007 High DHCP 2005-ongoing Medium DHCP 2005-ongoing Medium DHCP Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action area reach wider audience, coast and opportunity for community to voice concerns responsibility from communities Identification of issues Draw up action plan to resolve concerns Enhance profile of HC, Disseminate information, Provide information and Change user patterns Engaging local groups, Improvements in use of Involvement in management and conservation activities, reductions in conflicts Improved "story" of the Strengthen identity of Improved use of areas for conservation, Widen access to visitors, Improved experience for tourists Outcome walkers, nature, schools etc leaflets, to integrate with natural resources and tourism concerns communities Community consultations options to resolve Trial existing access conflicts Prepare and disseminate Open centralised Coastal centre Publish Heritage Coastal book Hands on activity programme and improved coastal Develop programmes that Set up Access working group Develop signage for area USE EDUCATION, ADVOCACY AND TRAINING TO STRENGTHEN OWNERSHIP OF COASTAL COMMUNITIES OVER RESOURCES ADVOCACY AND TRAINING TO STRENGTHEN OWNERSHIP OF COASTAL USE EDUCATION, events programme series of widely accessible Heritage Coast booklets, community participation target particular groups community to resolve interpretation material (Identified in appropriate sections of this plan) at Seaham and satellite centres. educate users through annual targeted e.g. anglers, water-sports, limited signage for interpretation. conflicts of access E3 Develop and promote E2 Develop and promote E4 Promote integrated and E1 with partners and Work Policy Recommendations Management action Strategy 5.

91 E F Role of E/F staff unit staff (and partners) 2005-ongoing High DHCP Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action dissemination of Coast Improved and wider Regular vehicles and Strengthen identity of coast Build capacity and capability 2005-2010Build employment, build confidence for local people, Improve community participation Highin management of coastal area DHCP (Landowners, C/E F information about Heritage Outcome s ILM, White Leas improved opportunities for Regeneration ’ Host annual forum with Provide regular and main annual newsletter about coast, Develop and fully utilise Support mainstreaming of Develop Coastal rangers eliciting community input,and more frequent bulletinswebsite as widely available information resource mechanism for community input, local and regional issues regarding coast community training addingvalue through the HeritageCoast Programme projects such as Ground Work in local communities, provide Farm Plan employment Groundwork Partnership) coastal issues regular platform for community partners to discuss local and wider E6 Support and develop and E6 Support E5 Provide and promote and E5 Provide Policy Recommendations Management action

92 E/C E E E E/A E E/C/A E Role of E/F staff unit staff (and partners) 2005-ongoing High DHCP 2005-ongoing High DHCP 2005-ongoing High DHCP Timeframe Priority Suggested lead for Action coastal assets protected coordinated, improved integration and management, coordinated, improved improved understanding between sectors improved spatial planning in coastal and marine areas improved understanding between sectors Coastal issue more Coastal issue more Improved spatial planning, 2005-ongoingIntegration of work High DHCP resources locally Outcome fora and levels Representation at appropriate Conduct regular annual andand issue discussion integration and management, Ensure that Partnership coastal and marine areas Projects developed in with planning procedures Representation at appropriate WORK IN PARTNERSHIP TO ACHIEVE BEST AVAILABLE SOLUTIONS IN MANAGING AREA TO ACHIEVE BEST AVAILABLE WORK IN PARTNERSHIP regional and national partners working to framework and strategy at strategic level, influencepolicy and work with fora and levels and national planning documents represented and involved appropriate bodies local forums for presentation improved spatial planning in Heritage Coast Partnership partnership using resources programmes, use of available P3 Ensure input into regional P2 Promote Heritage Coast P4 Utilize expertise in Durham P1 Promote and develop local, Policy Recommendations Management action Strategy 6.

93 purple Festuca Anthyllis and burnt lesser meadow-rue kidney vetch Ononis spinosa, Galium verum, Potentilla tabernaemontani spiny restharrow Photedes captiuncula. Listera ovata. Campanula rotundifolia, s bedstraw lady ’ spring cinquefoil harebell Rosa pimpinellifolia, and the least minor moth s-bill and pyramidal orchid. A small dune slack supports populations of and common twayblade ’ Among the species found on fixed dunes and adjacent grassland Lotus corniculatus, Primula veris, Hordeum marinum, burnet rose cowslip sea barley Orchisustulata. Dactylorhiza spp. Extent & Interest vulneraria, are bird’s-foot trefoil are bird’s-foot Covers 765 hectares from South Shields to Crimdon almost continuously. Covers 765 hectares from South Shields to Crimdon almost continuously. Point to Whitburn The boundary of the Durham Coast has been extended and incorporates Trow Shippersea Bay and Warren Steel (not within the Heritage Coast boundary), Seaham Harbour, Dunes. House Gill, Blackhall Rocks and Hart Warren SSSI, Castle Eden Dene SSSI and Hartlepool Foreshore Wetlands The site is adjacent to Tees and Hawthorn Dene SSSI. is of considerable biological, The Durham Coast between South Shields and Hart Warren geological and physiographic interest. It contains most of the paramaritime Magnesian limestone vegetation in Britain, as well a species-rich dune system, and supports nationally important numbers of wintering shore birds and breeding little terns which contribute to the internationally important populations of the north-east coast. The site contains six Geological Conservation Review (GCR) sites: Marsden Bay and Whitburn (not Shippersea Bay within Durham Heritage Coast boundary), Blackhalls Rocks, Seaham Harbour, House Gill. Parts of the site are within Castle Eden Dene National Nature Reserve and Warren and the Durham Coast National Nature Reserve. supports many species characteristic of The dune system and golf course roughs at Hart Warren both northern and southern British dune floras. The fixed dunes are of particular interest for their species rich flora and the presence of nationally scarce rush-leaved fescue Thalictrum minus, A The Durham coastline supports nationally important numbers of wintering purple sandpiper. number of discrete sections intertidal rock with associated boulder and cobble beaches provide feeding areas for these birds at most stages of the tidal cycle. Artificial structures as South Pier are used as high tide roosts. Seaham Harbour and River Tyne A beach at Crimdon was colonised by little tern in 1995 and now holds a nationally important breeding population. Sanderling are present in nationally important numbers and turnstone at Marsden Bay also The cliffs and knot also use the site for feeding roosting in winter. support a well-known seabird colony which includes kittiwake, fulmar and cormorant. The coast is entomologically rich and supports colonies of the Northern brown argus butterfly Aricia artaxerxes salmacis milk-vetch, bloody crane orchid orchid juncifolia, NNR Managing Partnership Landowners through Managed by SSSI SAC(part) SPA Spotlight NNR Ramsar Site Status Durham Coast NNR Site Designations within Heritage Coast Area

94 and, Pyrola Cornus Sesleria whilst in Discoloxia Equisetum herb paris Ulmus glabra Phyllitis also occur in the dogwood s rivulet ’ Quercus robur with wood anemone is well established and yew and wych elm Sanicula europaea, s-tongue fern Tilia cordata Tilia Convallaria majalis, scrub becomes established. Ligustrum vulgare, Allium ursinum and round-leaved wintergreen and sanicle privet and a ground flora containing tufted hair- Salix spp. Fraxinus excelsior quaking grass Briza media and fragrant orchid is the most abundant shrub species, but guelder Acer pseudoplatanus are also significant components of the shrub flora. dominate the canopy, with an understorey of hazel, dominate the canopy, and small-leaved lime Pteridium aquilinum. Neottia nidus-avis Mercurialis perennis Sorbus aucuparia, Euonymus europaeus, Corylus avellana or bracken Daphne laureola s mercury Betula pubescens s-nest orchid spindle and rowan Juniperus communis dog ’ Helianthemum nummularium, bird ’ Rare and local species include lily-of-the-valley common. Hazel Juniper and spurge laurel is often abundant, whilst in time willow rock rose Ilex aquifolium Deschampsia cespitosa, Viburnum opulus, Viburnum Extent & Interest holly At the western end of the dene is a small stand of grassland, containing blue moor-grass At the western end of dene is a small stand grassland, containing blue moor-grass blomeri. The species-rich ground flora is dominated by wild garlic telmateia dene. In the upper parts of dene on boulder clay soils pedunculate oak 193 hectares That part of the NNR situated east A1086 is included within Durham Coast SSSI. Castle Eden Dene is the largest and biologically richest of a series steep-sided wooded denes, formed as deep ravines in the Magnesian Limestone and boulder clay of Durham terrain large parts of the woodland remain comparatively free Coast. Due to its size and difficult The majority of the from human disturbance, despite the proximity of Peterlee New Town. woodland is developed on base-rich soils with ash as the main canopy species, although sycamore baccata Taxus Anemone nemorosa, Paris quadrifolia, The boulder clay slopes are inherently unstable and land-slips frequent. These become colonised by a wide range of ruderal and wetland plants in which giant horsetail Gymnadenia conopsea. The insect fauna is exceptionally diverse and includes a large assemblage of nationally regionally rare species, the best known being elm feeding moth, Blomer Borders the Heritage Coast in South. 2.5 ha Small areas of Magnesian limestone grassland sanguinea grass albicans, the humid valley-bottom there are locally extensive stands of hart ’ scolopendrium. rose rotundifolia. to a lesser extent, birch Landowners EN Interested Parties Managed by Site of Nature SSSI Conservation Interest SAC Spotlight NNR Status Ryhope Dene Teesmouth & ClevelandTeesmouth SPA European Marine Site Management Group of Castle Eden Dene Site

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WEBSITES REFERRED TO

WDCS Website www.wdcs.org

Shark Trust www.sharktrust.org

District of Easington www.easington.gov.uk

Seaham Sea Anglers Club www.eastdurham.co.uk

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100 GLOSSARY

Accretion The accumulation of (beach) sediment, deposited by natural fluid flow processes.

Appendix II of CITES CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) is an international agreement between Governments. Its aim is to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. Appendix II includes species not necessarily threatened with extinction, but in which trade must be controlled in order to avoid utilization incompatible with their survival.

Aquifer An underground geological formation or group of formations that contain water, a source of ground water for wells and springs.

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Area designated by the Countryside Agency and by the Secretary of State for the Environment in order to conserve and enhance its natural beauty

Artificial Reef Describes the attraction effect of non natural structures underwater. Marine life tend to become concentrated around structures due to settlement, food and shelter availability. Artificial reefs have been used worldwide in fisheries management, to attempt to restock areas or for recreational use. They have enjoyed mixed success and failure and are not appropriate in every setting.

Bait digging Describes the activities of digging for invertebrates to use as lure/bait for fishing. Damages habitat and can deplete species

Barrier Reef Name given to reefs separated from the adjacent coast by a channel or lagoon

Basal Yellow Sand Remnants of ancient barren desert covered by sand dunes

Bevelled layer of till Refers to the shape of unstratified soil deposited by a glacier; consists of sand and clay and gravel and boulders mixed together

Birds Directive EU Directive 79/409/EEC relates to the conservation of wild birds. This requires member states to take special measures to conserve vulnerable bird species and migratory birds. Sites designated under the Birds Directive are known as Special Protection Areas (SPAs). Sites designated under this directive and the Habitats Directive are known as Sites of Community Importance (SCIs) under the EU Natura 2000 programme, more commonly called Natura 2000 sites.

Habitats Directive EU Directive 92/43/EEC relates to the conservation of natural habitats and species. This requires member states to ensure the 'favourable conservation status' of internationally significant species and habitats. Sites designated under the Habitats Directive are known as Special Areas of

101 Conservation (SACs). Sites designated under this directive and the Birds Directive are known as Sites of Community Importance (SCIs) under the EU Natura 2000 programme, more commonly called Natura 2000 sites.

Biodiversity Originally coined from the term biological diversity, was first used in the 1980s by scientists to refer to the richness of biological variation on Earth or within a particular region. In their book Saving Nature’s Legacy, ecologists Reed Noss and Allen Cooperrider define biodiversity as “the variety of life and its processes. It includes the variety of living organisms, the genetic differences among them, the…ecosystems in which they occur, and the ecological and evolutionary processes that keep them functioning, yet ever changing and adapting”.

Boulder clay unstratified soil deposited by a glacier; consists of sand and clay and gravel and boulders mixed together

Breccia Rock made of highly angular, course fragments.

By-catch Fish and/or other marine life that are incidentally caught with the targeted species. Most of the time bycatch is discarded at sea.

C2C Project Coast to Coast Cycle route running across the UK

Carboniferous limestone strata Limestone layer from 345 million to 280 million years ago

Circa littoral The marine zone below 10 metres. This zone is then further divided up.

Coal seams Refers to the thick layers of dead vegetation built up over geological time being compacted providing the coal used today for fuel.

Colliery Spoil Dirt or rock removed from its original location by coal mining activity.

Continental Shelf An area of relatively shallow seabed which lies between the shore of a continent and the deeper water of the ocean.

CoS City of Sunderland

Countryside Agency Statutory Agency responsible for countryside matters

Countryside Commission Fore runner of the Countryside Agency

Crown Estate Commissioners Major property owners in UK Portfolio includes, ancient forests, farms, parkland, coastline and communities

CSO’s Combined sewer overflow. During a CSO, stormwater quickly fills the combined sewers, which carry both sanitary sewage and runoff from streets, hard surfaces, and rooftops. The overflows carry bacteria from the untreated sewage as well as other pollutants in the stormwater directly into water bodies.

DCC Durham County Council

Decommissioning In this instance the process of taking fishing vessels and equipment out of operation

Demography the study of the characteristics of human populations, such as size, growth, density, distribution and vital statistics

DTI Department of Trade and Industry

102 DoE District of Easington

Dolomitic/Dolomite A sedimentary rock composed largely of calcium magnesium carbonate (CaMg (CO3)2. Dredging Type of surface mining where chain buckets and draglines are used to extract sand, gravel, and other surface deposits covered with water. This technique is also used to remove sediment from streams and harbours to maintain shipping channels.

DBAP Durham Biodiversity Action Plan as obligation to implement the UK biodiversity action plan as part of the Convention on Biological Diversity

Durham Biodiversity Partnership Management Board of the above Action Plan

EN English Nature, statutory agency responsible for conservation and management of natural resources

EA Environment Agency. Regulatory Agency responsible for the environment

Escarpment A steep slope separating two comparatively level or more gently sloping surfaces

Ethnicity Referring to the race or culture of an individual.

EU European Union

Eutrophication The process by which water becomes enriched with plant nutrients, most commonly phosphorus and nitrogen, thereby causing excessive growth of aquatic plants

Fines Very small sediment particles

Geological Conservation Review A major initiative to identify and describe the most important geological sites in Britain began in 1977, with the launching of the Geological Conservation Review (GCR). This was a major step forward in Earth Heritage conservation.

Geomorphology The study of the arrangement and form of the Earth's crust and of the relationship between these physical features and the geologic structures beneath

Ghost-fishing Ghost fishing is the term used for lost or abandoned fishing gear that continues to catch fish

Great North Forest Community Forest Partnership

Heritage Coast Stretches of undeveloped coastline defined by the Countryside Agency as being of outstanding scenic value where resolution of conflicts is needed between recreation, conservation, public access and agriculture

Heritage Coast Partnership The management group of the above area

Holdfasts the rootlike part of a kelp plant that anchors the plant to the seafloor.

INCA Industry Nature Conservation Awareness Association

Integrated Coastal Zone Management A multisectoral approach with involvement of stakeholders to managing the coastal zone

Inter-tidal Zones The zone between the high and low water marks

103 IUCN Red Data List The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species provides taxonomic, conservation status and distribution information on taxa that have been evaluated using the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria. This system is designed to determine the relative risk of extinction, and the main purpose of the IUCN Red List is to catalogue and highlight those taxa that are facing a higher risk of global extinction

Littoral Zone Relating to or existing on a shore.

Local Transport Plan Produced by the Highways authority setting out transport policies and proposals

Magnesian limestone Describes the structure of the cliff top areas on the coast

Marine Erosion The wearing away of the land surface by wind or water.

Marl A calcareous clay, or impure fine grained limestone.

Mesolithic Middle part of the Stone Age beginning about 15,000 years ago

Micro-habitat fragmentation Describes the process of separation of habitats due to development or land management. Separation of small scale habitats causes negative impacts on species using these areas in terms of dispersal etc.

Mining subsidence The settling or sinking of a surface as a result of the loss of support from underlying soils or strata

Mudstone General term used to describe a very fine-grained sedimentary rock. Mud-sized particles that have solidified under water or underground are often identified as mudstone

National Nature Reserve These areas were established to protect the most important areas of wildlife habitat and geological formations in Britain, and as places for scientific research. This does not mean they are "no-go areas" for people. It means that we must be careful not to damage the wildlife of these fragile places.

National Parks National parks are designed to conserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage of areas of outstanding landscape value, and to promote public understanding and enjoyment of these areas. National parks exist in England, Scotland and Wales.

National Trust NT own a large proportion of coastal lands under the Project Neptune appeal. NTs remit is the preservation, in perpetuity and for the benefit of the nation, of land and buildings of Historic interest or natural beauty. This remit covers England, Wales and Northern Ireland (there is a separate national trust for Scotland).

NCN 1 National Cycle route one around the UK

NSCR North Sea Cycle route, circumnavigating the North Sea States

Neolithic Last part of the Stone Age, when agricultural skills had been developed but stone was still the principal material for tools and weapons. It began in the Near East around 8000 B.C. and in Europe around 6000 B.C.

ODPM Office of the Deputy Prime Minister

104 ONE One North East, previously the Regional Development Agency

Over-winter Describes the seasonal use of an area for wildlife

Palaeoniscus A classification of fossilised fish

Permian rocks Rocks from a period in the geologic time scale that spans from 286 to 245 million years ago.

Pesticide A chemical substance (e.g. an insecticide or fungicide) that kills harmful organisms and is used to control pests, such as insects, weeds or micro-organisms

Planning Policy Guidance Planning Policy Guidance notes form a systematic body of general policy guidance issued by the ODPM (and its predecessors) on all national planning topics. They lay down the national policies on which complementary geographically specific guidance - currently Regional Planning Guidance, County Structure Plans and Local Plans - must be based

"Polluter Pays" principle Recommendation from the OECD, the PPP means that the polluter should bear the expenses of carrying out measures decided by public authorities to ensure that the environment is in an acceptable state. The cost of these measures should be reflected in the cost of goods and services that generate pollution in production or consumption, or both.

Preliminary treatment Removal of large solids, oils, fat and other material from sewage so as to protect wastewater treatment facilities engaged in further treatment. The first stage of wastewater treatment which removes debris, sand, grit and fine particles.

Primary treatment The simplest, method of treatment is to allow the undissolved solids in raw sewage to settle out of suspension forming sludge. Such primary treatment removes only one- third of the BOD (biological oxygen demand-a measure of levels of bacteria) and virtually none of the dissolved minerals

Project Neptune National Trust on acquired large areas of coastline for conservation

Quality of life A measurement of human wellbeing. A systems approach is used to illustrate the dynamic state of our social, economic and environmental quality of life. The dimensions of life examined include: education, employment, energy, environment, health, human rights, income, infrastructure, national security, public safety, re-creation and shelter.

Reclamation The process by which lands disturbed as a result of mining activity are reclaimed back to a beneficial land use. Reclamation activity includes the removal of buildings, equipment, machinery and other physical remnants of mining, closure of tailings impoundments, leach pads and other mine features, and contouring, covering and revegetation of waste rock piles and other disturbed areas.

RoW Rights of Way

RTP Rural Transport Partnerships

SAC Special Area of Conservation, designated under the EU habitats directive to protect flora and fauna

105 Sandstone A sedimentary rock consisting of sand consolidated with some cement (clay or quartz etc.)

Shale A fine-grained sedimentary rock formed by the consolidation of clay or mud

Shoreline Management Plan Sets out guidance and intervention options required in coastal defence management over fifty year periods

Secondary treatment Here the effluent is brought in contact with oxygen and microorganisms. They break down much of the organic matter to harmless substances such as carbon dioxide. Primary and secondary treatment together can remove up to 90% of the BOD. After chlorination to remove its content of bacteria, the effluent from secondary treatment is returned to the local surface water.

Sea-level rise The long-term trend in mean sea level

Sediment Fine grains of solid material suspended in water or settled out of water to be deposited on land

Seismic/noise Acoustic method of compiling geological profiles either on land or at sea.

Sites of Special Scientific Interest SSSIs are designated by English Nature, Scottish Natural Heritage, Countryside Council for Wales, or DoENI. An SSSI is not necessarily owned by a conservation organisation or by the Government, they can be owned by anybody. The designation is primarily to identify those areas worthy of preservation. An SSSI is given certain protection against damaging operations, There is a list of what can and cannot be done on SSSI. The status also affords a certain amount of planning protection, but in practice this is sometimes not sufficient to prevent development.

Slumping the slow and gradual slippage of all layers of soil

SPA (Special Protected Area) Areas designated under the EU Birds directive

Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) involves reviewing policy, plan and program proposals to incorporate environmental considerations into the development of public policies.

Sub-littoral of or relating to the region of the continental shelf (between the seashore and the edge of the continental shelf) or the marine organisms situated there

Sustainable management Managing a renewable resource, such as forests, to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs

Sustainable tourism As above definition but relates to tourism i.e. leisure and recreation activities

Sustaine In September 1998 the North East Regional Round Table for Sustainable Development was established to provide a regional focus for the sustainable development agenda in the North East. It operates under the name of Sustainability North East, or Sustaine.

Sustrans Sustainable transport charity set up to encourage better use of public transport, cycling and walking

106 Terraces A horizontal or nearly horizontal natural or artificial topographic feature interrupting a steeper slop, sometimes occurring in a series. In this case due to the spoil build up from mining activities

Tertiary treatment Most of the nitrogen and phosphorus in sewage remains in the effluent from secondary treatment. These inorganic nutrients can cause algal blooms. To avoid this a third stage of treatment called tertiary or advanced waste treatment is employed.

Triassic Geologic period that occurred roughly 208 to 245 million years ago. During this period, the first dinosaurs appeared.

Turning the Tide (TTT) Partnership The Partnership of organisations that undertook the major regeneration of the Durham coast between 1996-2002

Unconsolidated Loose sediment that has not been cemented or otherwise converted to solid rock.

Wastewater Water that has been used and contains unwanted materials from homes, businesses, and industries; a mixture of water and dissolved or suspended substances.

Zechstein Sea Ancient sea in the Permian era occupying a similar position to the North Sea but spreading to the Pennines

107 Ryhope Development Trust Easington Colliery Regeneration Partnership Blackhall Regeneration Partnership Horden Regeneration Partnership