Case study: coastal management

Question (6 marks): With reference to a named UK coastal case study, explain why management was needed and evaluate the strategies used.

Mark scheme (levels):

• L1 (1–2): names location and identifies one reason or one strategy.
• L2 (3–4): explains 2+ reasons (e.g. protection of tourism economy, transport links, residential property, ecological habitat) and describes 2+ strategies used.
• L3 (5–6): full place-specific detail (Newcastle, Co. Down — Royal County Down golf course, Slieve Donard hotel, Promenade infrastructure; strategies: recurved sea wall + rock armour + beach nourishment; £multi-million investment). Evaluative judgement on sustainability, cost-effectiveness, conflicts (e.g. starving down-drift beaches), and adaptation to projected sea-level rise.