ROCK ARMOUR defences engineered to protect the crumbling sand dunes at Montrose could actually be accelerating their disappearance.

The problem has been highlighted after the relentless battering the coastline has suffered this winter, with high winds and high tides combining to eat away large chunks of the dunes between the armour points.

The rock defences were placed next to unstable dunes and tees on the Montrose Medal golf course some time ago as protection against coastal deterioration.

However, while the areas directly behind the armour remain largely intact, their shape causes tides to form a swirling effect, speeding the destabilisation of the unprotected dunes, and particularly those between the rock structures.

A spokeswoman for Angus Council said engineers were aware temporary defences could lead to artificially rapid deterioration of dunes but were seeking a permanent solution.

She said, “It is known that temporary structures, such as the rock armour strong points placed on the beach to protect significant features on the golf course can lead to an increased rate of erosion at stretches between these protected areas.

“We are aware of the problem and are seeking a long-term solution to this issue.”

Last year the council approved a £169,000 two-year research programme in conjunction with Dundee University to establish suitable anti-erosion techniques.

The first phase of the research is now complete, with part two of the project recently approved by the council and awaiting a grant towards funding.

“Details on when the study will commence will be announced in due course.”