Lyme Regis Cobb Stabilisation Scheme

The Cobb is a historic iconic harbour that provides a pivotal role as both a protective breakwater and a safeguard against erosion and flooding along the Lyme Bay coastline. In recent years, structural investigations have shown that the harbour is suffering from destabilisation caused by wave impact and sea floor erosion. The goal of this scheme is to reinforce and repair the harbour walls, ensuring that it continues its vital function for the bay and the local community and that its important heritage is safeguarded.

Stabilising the Cobb - What’s involved?

Stabilising the Cobb is not just an engineering challenge—it’s a complex puzzle with layers of constraints that make it one of the most demanding coastal projects in recent memory.

The structure’s historic significance means interventions must respect heritage values, while environmental sensitivities demand solutions that minimise ecological impact. Add to this the harsh physical realities of tidal working, unknown foundation depths, and exposure to dominant wave directions.

Cost limitations further tighten the options, forcing a delicate balance between durability, constructability and affordability.

Those involved in the scheme, including advisors and stakeholders, are all committed to develop a solution that protects the Cobb for future generations.

The following information was presented at an engagement event held at Jubilee Pavilion in Lyme Regis on the 27^th November. Information includes:

• Current possible option presented by Dorset Council for stabilising the Cobb and the remit it must meet - Design
• Current possible option - Visualisation
• What previous options have been assessed
• Viewpoints and considerations from various heritage and environmental bodies
• Current funding status for the stabilisation scheme
• Environment and the Cobb
• Meet the Project Team

Dorset Coast Forum collected feedback at the engagement event and further engagement is planned for the New Year. This feedback will be presented on the webpage once it has been collated.

Emergency Repairs to Cobb Void

After assessment work in August 2025 by engineering consultants, some urgent works were needed to repair a large void that had appeared in the Cobb below the Gin Shop turn. These works were due to take place in early November to coincide with low spring tides. However, due to adverse weather temporary repairs were carried out instead until the next suitable spring tides in the New Year. Find out more by visiting the Project Update page here.

Engagement Event - Stabilising the Cobb: What are the options?

Drop in and chat to team:

📅 When: Thursday 27 November 2025

🕛Time: 12 to 6pm

🏦 Where: Jubilee Pavilion, Marine Parade, Lyme Regis

On behalf of Dorset Council, Dorset Coast Forum are leading a drop-in event that will share details of the Cobb Stabilisation scheme. It will help explain why the Cobb requires stabilisation and the complexities and key players involved in taking the scheme forward. There will be updates on the recent void, why it formed, its implications and how it was repaired as well as details of other defects requiring repair.