North East Kent Coast Scientific Research Code

What is the Research Code and who is it for?

This research code aims to safeguard the wildlife and geological interest of the area, and provide a means of registering new research. It is a voluntary code of conduct for anyone carrying out scientific research within the North East Kent coast area between Whitstable and Deal and is complementary to the existing Thanet Coast Codes aimed at recreational coastal users.

Why is the North East Kent Coast important?

This coast is a valued open space used by many people for many activities, from recreation to scientific study. It is internationally important for wintering and breeding birds as well as chalk cliffs, caves and reefs and it forms part of a larger area consisting of several nature conservation designations – two Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), a Special Protection Area (SPA), a Ramsar site and two Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) – collectively known as the North East Kent European Marine Sites.

How was this code produced?

This North East Kent Coast Scientific Research Code has been produced by the North East Kent Coastal Scientific Advisory Group. This is a group of scientists and researchers based in north east Kent, which aims to:

  • Act as a focus for coastal information gathering and dissemination
  • Investigate scientific problems and issues affecting the coast
  • Influence coastal policy decisions
  • Act as an advisory body to the North East Kent European Marine Sites Management Group
  • Keep in contact with local stakeholders

How to use this guide

The General Researcher Seashore Code applies to all coastal users, and you should read it, in conjunction with the specific code for your activity. The specific codes include:

  • Activities covered by Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1992
  • General Sciences
  • Earth Sciences – Geology and Geomorphology
  • Biological Sciences – Biology and Ecology
  • Physical Sciences – Hydrology, Metallurgy, Chemistry and Physics
  • Geography – Landuse, Economics and Human Sociology

For more specialist research work you should first consult the Joint Nature Conservation Committee Marine Monitoring Handbook

The codes are followed by a useful contacts list giving details of local organisations you may need to contact regarding your proposed research.

Before commencing your work it is suggested that you forward a brief outline of your research to the North East Kent Coastal Scientific Advisory Group – c/o Thanet Coast Project, PO Box 9, Cecil Street, Margate CT9 1XZ or email it to thanet.coast@thanet.gov.uk to register your research and obtain landowner consent.

Other sources of information