The submerged breakwaters act somewhat in the manner of natural reefs. Allowing a controlled degree of wave activity over the structures prevents the accumulation of mud which had been recognised as a potential problem from the experience gained in monitoring the Leasowe works. Whilst the accumulation of mud is evidence of the reduced wave and current activity, its presence is unwelcome on beaches used frequently by the general public. In addition to the breakwaters, associated work has included the construction of wave absorbing slopes in front of an old vertical seawall to limit reflection (see Fig. 119), and the roughening of an existing sloping seawall to inhibit wave uprush and to reduce the magnitude of the long shore current immediately adjacent to the wall (see Fig. 121).

Before constructing the Wirral breakwaters, an extensive study was undertaken at the University of Liverpool which involved both computational and physical modelling. The computer modelling (see Fig. 120) aimed to evaluate the wave and current conditions and the associated sediment transport patterns within the area; this work necessitated the collection of extensive field data. The physical modelling addressed the details of the design of the breakwaters. Research has continued with the monitoring of the completed scheme (see Fig. 122).