Datasets and Observatories:
The South West Observatory is the regional information gateway, providing access to a network of analysts and information across a broad range of demographic, environmental and economic services.
The Observatory is made up of six thematic Modules, seven sub-regional intelligence networks and a co-ordinating core unit. The network is working to a common vision; that policy making in, and about, the south west region should be based on sound evidence. It is the Observatory's aim to be the automatic first port of call for intelligence about the South West region and its parts.
South West Coastal Monitoring Group
The Southwest Strategic Regional Coastal Monitoring Programme provides a consistent regional approach to coastal process monitoring, providing information of the development of strategic shoreline management plans, coastal defence strategies and operational management of coastal protection and flood defence.
The programme is managed on behalf of the Coastal Groups and is funded by DEFRA, in partnership with the maritime Local Authorities and the Environment Agency Southwest Region.
The maritime Local Authorities, Coastal Groups of the southwest of England and the Environment Agency (South West Region) are working with a collective vision, to develop a long-term, region wide coastal process monitoring and analysis programme.
Large quantities of data will be made freely available from the survey and analysis programme; this is expected to be useful to Local Authorities within the region, the Environment Agency, consultants in coastal defence, conservation management, academic research and for educational purposes.
The Channel Coast Observatory is the lead organisation hosting monitoring data and effort along the south coasts of England.