Titchwell Marsh is changing, but with the right actions, we can shape its future. Over a decade ago, we strengthened our sea defences while allowing natural processes to shape the landscape. Now, we’re preparing for the next phase: restoring balance to Volunteer Marsh and continuing to safeguard Titchwell’s freshwater habitats.
A look back: The Coastal Change Project
In 2011, we carried out a significant coastal change project, reinforcing the east, west, and Parrinder sea defence banks. As part of this work, we breached the east sea wall at Volunteer Marsh, allowing tides to enter the area twice daily. This was the first step toward creating a protective saltmarsh here that would help buffer the coastline.
The project was a success. When a severe storm surge hit the UK's east coast in December 2013, the strengthened sea walls protected Titchwell’s freshwater habitats, preventing devastating damage. However, over time, the way water moves through Volunteer Marsh has changed.
The erosion challenge
Routine monitoring has shown that, in recent years, sediment loss has accelerated in key areas of Volunteer Marsh. Rather than building up as expected, strong tidal flows are deepening and widening channels, and some sections of the Parrinder Bank are now eroding. If this continues unchecked, it could put Titchwell’s freshwater habitats at risk.
The Solution: Restoring balance
To counteract erosion and to continue to encourage saltmarsh growth, we are working on developing a Regulated Tidal Exchange (RTE) system, designed to manage the flow of seawater into and out of the marsh. Here’s how it could work:
1, Partially filling the breach: A low bank with pipes will regulate water flow, turning Volunteer Marsh into a dynamic saline lagoon with gradually fluctuating water levels.
2. Building a spillway: On the biggest tides, water will flow over a lowered section of the bank, maintaining equilibrium and preventing damaging tidal surges.
3. Encouraging sediment build-up: With reduced tidal energy, sediment should accumulate, stabilising the marsh and continuing to encourage saltmarsh plant growth.
4. Creating habitat: These changes should enhance feeding and breeding areas for species like Avocet, Ringed Plover, Oystercatcher, Common Tern, and Spoonbill.
Why act now?
Routine monitoring has shown that erosion is accelerating. If left unchecked, the Parrinder Bank and freshwater habitats could be at serious risk. Coastal engineers have conducted predictive assessments, and the time to act is now. If we can create the conditions for saltmarsh to establish, we can offer long-term protection for the freshwater habitats of Titchwell Marsh.
Looking Ahead: A 30-year vision
Within the next 30 years, the north wall of Volunteer Marsh is expected to naturally erode, eventually connecting the saline lagoon to the sea. When this happens, a well-established saltmarsh will absorb wave energy, providing a natural defence against coastal erosion. This work will take Volunteer Marsh through its next stage of development and ensure that Titchwell Marsh remains a resilient and thriving habitat for wildlife for years to come.
How you can get involved
Volunteer: Become a Roving Ranger and help visitors connect with nature. Email titchwell@rspb.org.uk to learn more. Document the change: Take a photo from the West Bank Path photography point and share it using #TransformingTitchwell or email it to titchwell@rspb.org.uk to help us track the transformation. Donate: Your support helps us continue our ongoing work at RSPB Titchwell Marsh. You can donate to this project via our RSPB Titchwell Dedication Page
Thanks to support from Prime Plc and the WWF Wholescape Grant, we’re working with consultants and contractors to continue to develop this project. Stay tuned for updates as we embark on this exciting next chapter!