Reply to the comment by Stephenson “Discussion of de Lange, W.P. and Moon, V.G. 2005. Estimating long-term cliff recession rates from shore platform widths. Engineering Geology 80, 292–301”

Abstract

In his discussion, Stephenson raises several points, first and foremost being that the method we outline for determining long-term cliff recession rates from shore platform widths is not universally applicable. We agree fully with this and described the assumptions required for applying the method in our paper, viz.: 1. The seaward margin of the shore platform has remained relatively static; 2. Shore platform development only occurs when the mean sea level corresponds roughly (± 1 m) to the mean elevation of the shore platform; and 3. The shore platform is not polycyclic. If these assumptions are breached then we believe the method outlined cannot give a good result. Thus, much of our paper was devoted to justifying these assumptions for the sites studied, and we note that the use of the method at other locations would require careful consideration of the validity of the assumptions for each specific environment. Stephenson also questions the application of static and equilibrium models and the use of the terms soft and hard rock. These will be considered in turn.