The eastern side of the groyne (left) is starved of material which means that the wave can travel further up the beach Due to human interference at Criccieth, the cliffs and beach have changed shape.

Hornsea is protected by a sea wall, groynes and rock armour. Coastal management at Withernsea has tried to make the beach wider by using groynes, and also uses a seawall to protect the coast.