Flandrian sea‐level changes in the Fenland. II: Tendencies of sea‐level movement, altitudinal changes, and local and regional factors

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Abstract
Stratigraphic, micropalaeontologic and radiocarbon data show that since c. 6500 BP the Fenland has been influenced by 7 periods of positive sea‐level tendencies and by 6 periods of negative sea‐level tendencies. Despite the numerous problems associated with the reconstruction of past altitudes of sea level the periods of positive sea‐level tendencies were clearly characterised by a rise in sea level, the development of transgressive overlaps and a landward movement of the coastline. The periods of negative sea‐level tendencies were characterised by the development of regressive overlaps, a seaward movement of the coastline and a reduced or negative rate of sea‐level rise. The various altitudinal errors do not permit the incontrovertible distinction of periods of falling sea levels. All changes within the Fenland were not synchronous and local factors influenced the exact nature of each sea‐level indicator. Dominant regional and local factors have been identified for different areas and different time periods. The chronological and spatial characteristics of the sequences within the Fenland are best explained by a palaeocoastline without supratidal barriers controlling sedimentation. The data indicate an average crustal subsidence in the Fenland of 0.9m/1000 years since c. 6500 BP and the pattern of positive and negative tendencies of sea‐level movement is also seen in the chronologies for north west England and north east Scotland.

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