We installed the Whitby Living Causeway — a unique ecoengineering project that brings together art, ecology, and community creativity. The name reflects its resemblance to the Giant’s Causeway.

Situated on a historic boat-launching ramp in the urbanised Esk estuary, the installation comprises 101 hexagonal panels, each textured to encourage the settlement of seaweeds and invertebrates. A network of shallow channels links the panels, slowing tidal runoff and retaining small pockets of water. Eight artificial rockpools are integrated in the installation, replicating the function of natural intertidal pools.

Inside these rockpools are hand-crafted clay features, made by local participants during a series of community workshops. They provide rich textures for species to attach to or hide underneath.

Designed as a visible intertidal sculpture for nearby housing and the promenade, the layout was inspired by the flow of the River Esk, contrasting organic movement with clean, geometric shapes. The four panel textures were inspired by native bivalves, honeycomb worm reefs, corals, and Bryozoa — together forming an artificial reef that integrates beautifully into the coastal landscape.

This project was led and designed by Dr Ruth Callaway (Littorina), with panels and pools manufactured and installed by CubeX using UHPC. Nigel George (Artecology) textured the interiors of the pools and embedded the community-made artwork. Community workshops were organised by Groundwork NE & Cumbria, who also commissioned the project, with funding from the Environment Agency.