1.  The formation of shingle ridges is dependent upon an adequate supply of coarse grade material from the seabed immediately offshore.  There are concerns that the present supply of shingle, from the boulder clays, has dwindled somewhat in recent years and the development of new shingle ridges may not make good the loss through accretion of embryo dunes.  A series of shingle ridges now vegetated is clearly demonstrated at the south end of the reserve.  The beach nourishment process selectively excludes against coarse materials in favour of fine sand for beach re- instatement.  However, in 2000, encouraging signs of a new shingle ridge, Millennium Ridge were in evidence.  This follows the pattern of previous ridge development, running approximately north - south and terminating at the river Steeping Haven.

2.  Breeding shorebirds exploit the shingle ridges from the Steeping haven up to and beyond the NNR boundary.  The population of little tern is of international importance and ringed plovers occur in nationally important numbers.  The densest populations are within the shorebird sanctuary at the southern end of the ridge system.  The favoured nesting site during the late 1990’s is now clad in embryo dunes.  It seems likely that with the continued accretion and an increase in vertical height, the Millenium Ridge will become the favoured little tern colony site within this plan period.  Little Tern is an Annexe I species under the EC Habitats Directive and is dealt with as a separate feature.

3.  The Millennium Ridge is already proving attractive to large numbers of wading birds which roost here during the spring tides.  To the north, the extensive shingle ridge at Greenshank Creek, provides an important secondary roost site.  The assemblage of non-breeding waterbirds constitute a separate feature of European importance.

4.  North of Greenshank’s Ridge, a very extensive bank of shingle continues to the north end of the NNR and beyond.  The integrity of this shingle has been disturbed by vehicular activities.  Vehicular damage can have long-lasting effects and constant efforts will be made to deter trial bikes and 4- wheel drive vehicles in particular.  The importance of this habitat has been stressed to the 'beach ferry' operator after extensive rutting was caused to shingle above mean high water by this vehicle in 1999.

5.  Spring high tides may leave unsightly debris on the ridges.  This may constitute a hazard to people and wildlife.