BGS Seabed Sediments 250k version 3.0

The BGS Seabed Sediments 250k dataset is vector data is vector data which reflects the distribution of seabed substrate types of the UK and some of its adjacent waters at 1:250,000 scale.

This comprehensive product provides a digital compilation of the paper maps published by BGS at the same scale, as well as, additional re-interpretations from regional geological studies.

The seabed is commonly covered by sediments that form a veneer or thicker superficial layer of unconsolidated material above the bedrock. These sediments are classified based on their grain size reflecting the environment in which were deposited. This information is important to a range of stakeholders, including marine habitat mappers, marine spatial planners, offshore industries (in particular, the dredging and aggregate industries).

This dataset was primarily based on seabed grab samples of the top 0.1 m, combined with cores, dredge samples and sidescan sonar acquired during mapping surveys since the early 1970s. The variations in data density will be reflected in the detail of the mapping.