Modelling of complex coastal environments: Some considerations for best practise

Abstract The numerical modelling of large-scale sediment transport and coastal morphology frequently requires significant model reduction and optimisation in order to achieve expedient conclusions. This study provides a detailed sensitivity analysis of various model ‘reduction’ techniques using the Bristol Channel, western U.K. as a case study. The work elucidates a number of the best practises for employment of state-of-the-art systems to complex coastal regions.