Background and cost of implementation
One of the main hurdles to undertaking Managed Realignment (MR) and Regulated Tidal Exchange (RTE) projects is the cost of their implementation as well as the risk of these costs increasing where obstacles are encountered during implementation. A review of the cost data held in the
OMReG database has shown that, in the short-term, these schemes are rarely the cheap and easy option that was envisaged in the 1990s. Costs can range greatly, from £1,450/ha for the Pillmouth scheme to around £110,000/ha for the Trimley Marsh and Paull Holme Strays schemes (2011 costs). Compensatory scheme costs are also typically much higher, at just under £70,000/ha on average, than others. Examples include Chowder Ness, Welwick and Trimley Marsh. The amount and scale of new defences is also a critical consideration.
This paper reviews historical trends and future expectations on the issue of cost as well as presenting a background overview of MR and RTE projects.