A Re-appraisal of the Late Quaternary of Glacial History of the North Eastern Irish Sea based on Offshore Windfarm Ground Models.
Supervisor: Justin Dix (SOTON, UK)
This study investigates the late Quaternary glacial history of the Irish Sea, leveraging high-resolution seismic data obtained from geophysical surveys conducted for the Walney wind farms. The research identifies six distinct stratigraphic units, revealing a complex sequence of glacial retreat, marine deposition, and readvance of the Devensian British-Irish Ice Sheet. Units 2-4 record the initial northward retreat of the ice sheet, with representing a shallow marine environment between 21,000 and 16,000 years ago. Unit 5 provides evidence of a glacial readvance occurring between 19,300 and 18,300 years ago, highlighting the oscillatory nature of deglaciation. Unit 6 captures approximately 7,000 years of Holocene nearshore marine deposition, potentially indicating sea-level fluctuations. The study’s key innovation lies in developing a comprehensive Ground Model that distinctly captures both retreat and readvance phases, enhancing our understanding of ice sheet dynamics and informing wind farm development. This research demonstrates a synergy between renewable energy projects and advanced geological studies, providing insights into past climate dynamics and their implications for future environmental changes. Future research directions include detailed sedimentological and geotechnical analyses and high-resolution dating to refine local sea-level change interpretations and improve predictions of coastal responses to climate change.

Keywords: Quaternary glacial history, seismic stratigraphy, British-Irish Ice Sheet, Irish Sea, glacial readvance, sea-level changes, offshore wind farms, ground modeling, climate dynamics