UK structure site report : Howick

Understanding the architecture and connectivity of faults and fractures is important for multiple end users, including engineering geology and construction; and controls on groundwater flow and fluid compartmentalization. The Howick site on the Northumberland coastline provides an excellent lateral and vertical cross-section through two faults, the Howick and Culvernose faults. The Howick fault juxtaposes the Stainmore Formation (interbedded mudstone, sandstone, and siltstone) against the Alston Formation (interbedded limestone and thin mudstone), while the Cullernose fault juxtaposes the Alston Formation against the Whin Sill. Lithology controls fault attitude, and where conjugate faults meet, the intersection zone is highly fractured and faulted. The faults show a penecontemporaneous relationship with the Whin Sill complex, suggesting faulting occurred during and after magma emplacement.