DEVELOPMENT OF A NATIONAL WAVE RECORDING NETWORK FOR ENGLAND AND WALES

The need for more organised wave recording arrangements for the UK has been identified over recent years. In 2001 DEFRA commissioned a Feasibility Study to review the situation and make proposals for setting up a near shore wave network. The Feasibility Study concluded that there was likely to be a good economic case for establishing a long-term network. A business case for a national network was submitted and approved, enabling the establishment of a network to proceed with government funding. The business case indicated that a network of new wave rider buoys to complement continuing data from some existing Met Office buoys combined with HF radar wave measurement installations would be most effective. Detailed design studies were undertaken in 2001/2 to identify technical and administrative proposals for the network and user requirements. Work began in September 2002 to start installing a new network of 5 wave recording buoys and to develop a database for collation and dissemination of wave data. This is expected to be operational by April 2003. Technical studies are progressing into the use of HF radar with the intention to establish a pilot installation in 2003.