Rapid asymmetric weathering of a limestone obelisk in a coastal environment: Telscombe Cliffs, Brighton, UK

Rapid weathering is described of a small limestone obelisk erected in 1995/6 close to the cliff edge at Telscombe some 8 km east of Brighton on the south coast of England. Weathering has resulted in extensive flaking and granular disintegration of the Portland Stone. Weathering intensity is spatially variable with the east and south faces of the obelisk more severely weathered, than the west and north faces. The upper faces of a basal plinth and an ogee cornice moulding positioned 1 m above the base are less affected than the vertical and near vertical faces. The underside of the ogee moulding and the sheltered vertical faces below are the most severely weathered. The causes of weathering are discussed in relation to the stone characteristics and the prevailing environmental conditions.