1887
Volume 37, Issue 6
  • E-ISSN: 1365-2117
PDF

Abstract

[ABSTRACT

Mississippian‐aged (Lower Carboniferous) syn‐rift carbonate platforms in the UK have been extensively studied in outcrop. They have been interpreted to grow principally on the footwall of faults, with deeper marine sedimentation in the adjacent hanging wall basins. However, the transition from the shelf margin to the basin is often poorly constrained due to a lack of exposure and the scarcity of high‐quality seismic data. With renewed interest in Mississippian carbonate strata as potential geothermal reservoirs in northern Europe, a better understanding of the detailed geometry of these carbonate platforms, and the controls on their growth and demise, is crucial as it provides insights into their occurrence, size and thickness and burial/exposure history. This study uses high‐resolution 3D seismic data from the southern part of the offshore East Irish Sea Basin (EISB), western UK, to identify, characterise and map the platform to basin transition of the North Wales carbonate platform, exposed on the North Wales coastline. The results indicate that there is not a simple platform to basin transition, as has previously been mapped, but that the North Wales platform gives way offshore to numerous small carbonate platforms, the presence of which is predominantly controlled by N‐S‐oriented extensional faults. The fault orientation is not consistent with the regionally interpreted N‐S stress direction during the Mississippian, but fault growth analysis suggests that their orientation most likely reflects the precursor structural grain. These faults facilitated the development of horst‐graben structures, promoting carbonate growth on footwalls within the EISB. Six areas of potential carbonate platform development (A1–A6) were mapped and evaluated. Thicknesses range from ~1 to 2 km. The platforms prograded during the Tournaisian, characterised by low‐angle slopes, followed by a backstepping phase in the Visean, marked by steeper slopes. The platforms significantly shrank in size from the early Tournaisian to the Visean, resulting in the formation of complex, patchy carbonate platforms with diverse shapes and sizes. The results demonstrate that numerous small carbonate platforms grew in the EISB on structural highs but were susceptible to environmental change at the end of the Mississippian, causing them to become increasingly isolated and to eventually drown.

,

Mississippian carbonate platforms in the East Irish Sea Basin developed not only on footwalls but also within hanging wall basins, controlled by inherited N–S faults. Seismic interpretation reveals complex growth geometries and platform demise, offering new insights into extensional tectonics and geothermal reservoir potential in structurally complex carbonate systems.

]
Basin Research © 2025 John Wiley & Sons Ltd, European Association of Geoscientists & Engineers and International Association of Sedimentologists © 2025 The Author(s). Basin Research published by International Association of Sedimentologists and European Association of Geoscientists and Engineers and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Loading

Article metrics loading...

/content/journals/10.1111/bre.70072
2025-11-29
2026-01-18

  • From This Site

    /content/journals/10.1111/bre.70072
    dcterms_title,dcterms_subject,pub_keyword
    -contentType:Journal -contentType:Contributor -contentType:Concept -contentType:Institution
    10
    5
Loading full text...

Full text loading...

/deliver/fulltext/bre/37/6/bre70072.html?itemId=/content/journals/10.1111/bre.70072&mimeType=html&fmt=ahah

References

  1. Adams, A. E., A. D.Horbury, and A. A.Abdel Aziz. 1990. “Controls on Dinantian Sedimentation in South Cumbria and Surrounding Areas of Northwest England.” Proceedings of the Geologists' Association101, no. 1: 19–30. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0016‐7878(08)80203‐9.
     [Google Scholar]
  2. Adams, A. E. W., and J. A. M.Kenter. 2014. “So Different, Yet So Similar: Comparing and Contrasting Siliciclastic and Carbonate Slopes.” In Deposits, Architecture, and Controls of Carbonate Margin, Slope, and Basinal Settings, 14–25. SEPM (Society for Sedimentary Geology). https://doi.org/10.2110/sepmsp.105.14.
     [Google Scholar]
  3. Armstrong, P., C.Durrand, I.Barany, and T.Butaud. 2004. “Seismic Measurements While Drilling Reduce Uncertainty in the Deepwater Gulf of Mexico.” SEG Technical Program Expanded Abstracts23, no. 1: 2470–2473. https://doi.org/10.1190/1.1851248.
     [Google Scholar]
  4. Bachtel, S. L., R. D.Kissling, D.Martono, S. P.Rahardjanto, P. A.Dunn, and B. A.MacDonald. 2005. Seismic Stratigraphic Evolution of the Miocene‐Pliocene Segitiga Platform, East Natuna Sea, Indonesia: The Origin, Growth, and Demise of an Isolated Carbonate Platform, 81. AAPG Memoir.
     [Google Scholar]
  5. Badali, M.2024. “Seismic Expression of Shallow‐Water Carbonate Structures Through Geologic Time.” Interpretation12, no. 2: T119–T147. https://doi.org/10.1190/INT‐2023‐0014.1.
     [Google Scholar]
  6. Barnaby, R. J., and J. F.Read. 1990. “Carbonate Ramp to Rimmed Shelf Evolution: Lower to Middle Cambrian Continental Margin, Virginia Appalachians.” Bulletin of the Geological Society of America102, no. 3: 391–404. https://doi.org/10.1130/0016‐7606(1990)102<0391:CRTRSE>2.3.CO;2.
     [Google Scholar]
  7. Barnett, A. J., P. M.Burgess, and V. P.Wright. 2002. “Icehouse World Sea‐Level Behaviour and Resulting Stratal Patterns in Late Visean (Mississippian) Carbonate Platforms: Integration of Numerical Forward Modelling and Outcrop Studies.” Basin Research14, no. 3: 417–438. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365‐2117.2002.00186.x.
     [Google Scholar]
  8. Bashir, Y., M. A.Faisal, A.Biswas, et al. 2021. “Seismic Expression of Miocene Carbonate Platform and Reservoir Characterization Through Geophysical Approach: Application in Central Luconia, Offshore Malaysia.” Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production11, no. 4: 1533–1544. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13202‐021‐01132‐2.
     [Google Scholar]
  9. Betzler, C., S.Lindhorst, T.Lüdmann, B.Weiss, M.Wunsch, and J. C.Braga. 2015. “The Leaking Bucket of a Maldives Atoll: Implications for the Understanding of Carbonate Platform Drowning.” Marine Geology366: 16–33. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.margeo.2015.04.009.
     [Google Scholar]
  10. Betzler, C., S.Lindhorst, J. J. G.Reijmer, et al. 2023. “Carbonate Platform Drowning Caught in the Act: The Sedimentology of Saya de Malha Bank (Indian Ocean).” Sedimentology70, no. 1: 78–99. https://doi.org/10.1111/sed.13032.
     [Google Scholar]
  11. Blomeier, D. P. G., and J. J. G.Reijmer. 2002. “Facies Architecture of an Early Jurassic Carbonate Platform Slope (Jbel Bou Dahar, High Atlas, Morocco).” Journal of Sedimentary Research72, no. 4: 462–475. https://doi.org/10.1306/111501720462.
     [Google Scholar]
  12. Bos, S., and B.Laenen. 2017. “Development of the First Deep Geothermal Doublet in the Campine Basin of Belgium.” European Geologist Journal43: 16–20.
     [Google Scholar]
  13. Bosence, D.2005. “A Genetic Classification of Carbonate Platforms Based on Their Basinal and Tectonic Settings in the Cenozoic.” Sedimentary Geology175: 49–72. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sedgeo.2004.12.030.
     [Google Scholar]
  14. Brandano, M., M.Lustrino, I.Cornacchia, and M.Sprovieri. 2015. “Global and Regional Factors Responsible for the Drowning of the Central Apennine Chattian Carbonate Platforms.” Geological Journal50, no. 5: 575–591. https://doi.org/10.1002/gj.2575.
     [Google Scholar]
  15. Broothaers, M., D.Lagrou, B.Laenen, V.Harcouët‐Menou, and D.Vos. 2021. “Deep Geothermal Energy in the Lower Carboniferous Carbonates of the Campine Basin, Northern Belgium: An Overview From the 1950's to 2020.” Zeitschrift der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Geowissenschaften172, no. 3: 211. https://doi.org/10.1127/zdgg/2021/0285.
     [Google Scholar]
  16. Burchette, T. P., and V. P.Wright. 1992. “Carbonate Ramp Depositional Systems.” Sedimentary Geology79, no. 1–4: 3–57. https://doi.org/10.1016/0037‐0738(92)90003‐A.
     [Google Scholar]
  17. Burgess, P. M., P.Winefield, M.Minzoni, and C.Elders. 2013. “Methods for Identification of Isolated Carbonate Buildups From Seismic Reflection Data.” AAPG Bulletin97, no. 7: 1071–1098. https://doi.org/10.1306/12051212011.
     [Google Scholar]
  18. Busby, J.2014. “Geothermal Energy in Sedimentary Basins in the UK.” Hydrogeology Journal22, no. 1: 129–141. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10040‐013‐1054‐4.
     [Google Scholar]
  19. Cartwright, J., B.Trudgill, and C.Mansfield. 2000. “Fault Growth by Segment Linkage: An Explanation for Scatter in Maximum Displacement and Trace Length Data From the Canyonlands Grabens of SE Utah: Reply Journal of Structural Geology (22, 1).” Journal of Structural Geology22, no. 1: 1319. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0191‐8141(99)00135‐2.
     [Google Scholar]
  20. Cartwright, J. A., C.Mansfield, and B.Trudgill. 1996. “The Growth of Normal Faults by Segment Linkage.” Geological Society Special Publication99: 163–177. https://doi.org/10.1144/GSL.SP.1996.099.01.13.
     [Google Scholar]
  21. Chadwick, R. A., and D. J.Evans. 1995. “The Timing and Direction of Permo‐Triassic Extension in Southern Britain.” Geological Society Special Publication91: 161–192. https://doi.org/10.1144/GSL.SP.1995.091.01.09.
     [Google Scholar]
  22. Chadwick, R. A., D. J.Evans, and D. W.Holliday. 1993. “The Maryport Fault: The Post‐Caledonian Tectonic History of Southern Britain in Microcosm.” Journal of the Geological Society of London150, no. 2: 247–250. https://doi.org/10.1144/gsjgs.150.2.0247.
     [Google Scholar]
  23. Chee, O. P., M.Poppelreiter, D.Ghosh, R.Lazar, and U.Djuraev. 2018. “Study of a TX Field Miocene Carbonate Build‐Up: Integration of Sedimentological Data With Modern Carbonate Analogue and 3D Seismic Characterization to Establish Carbonate Facies Modelling Workflow.” Bulletin‐Geological Society of Malaysia65: 135–140. https://doi.org/10.7186/bgsm65201816.
     [Google Scholar]
  24. Corfield, S. M., R. L.Gawthorpe, M.Gage, A. J.Fraser, and B. M.Besly. 1996. “Inversion Tectonics of the Variscan Foreland of the British Isles.” Journal of the Geological Society153, no. 1: 17–32. https://doi.org/10.1144/gsjgs.153.1.0017.
     [Google Scholar]
  25. Couleou, T.2020. “On the Use of Seismic Velocities in Model Building for Depth Conversion.”https://doi.org/10.3997/2214‐4609‐pdb.15.iv‐1.
  26. Coward, M. P.1993. “The Effect of Late Caledonian and Variscan Continental Escape Tectonics on Basement Structure, Paleozoic Basin Kinematics and Subsequent Mesozoic Basin Development in NW Europe.” Petroleum Geology Conference Proceedings4: 1095–1108. https://doi.org/10.1144/0041095.
     [Google Scholar]
  27. Coward, M. P.1995. “Structural and Tectonic Setting of the Permo‐Triassic Basins of Northwest Europe.” Geological Society Special Publication91: 7–39. https://doi.org/10.1144/GSL.SP.1995.091.01.02.
     [Google Scholar]
  28. Davies, S. J.2008. “The Record of Carboniferous Sea‐Level Change in Low‐Latitude Sedimentary Successions From Britain and Ireland During the Onset of the Late Paleozoic Ice Age.” Special Paper of the Geological Society of America441: 187–20410. https://doi.org/10.1130/2008.2441(13).
     [Google Scholar]
  29. de Jonge‐Anderson, I., and J. R.Underhill. 2020. “Structural Constraints on Lower Carboniferous Shale Gas Exploration in the Craven Basin, NW England.” Petroleum Geoscience26, no. 2: 303–324. https://doi.org/10.1144/petgeo2019‐125.
     [Google Scholar]
  30. del Strother, P., A.Giże, C.Hollis, and D.McLean. 2021. “Bituminous Coals on Emergent Surfaces in an Asbian, Lower Carboniferous (Mississippian) Limestone Succession on the North Wales Carbonate Platform, UK, and Implications for Palaeoclimate.” Proceedings of the Yorkshire Geological Society63, no. 4: pygs2020‐006.63. https://doi.org/10.1144/pygs2020‐006.
     [Google Scholar]
  31. Della Porta, G., J. A. M.Kenter, and J. R.Bahamonde. 2004. “Depositional Facies and Stratal Geometry of an Upper Carboniferous Prograding and Aggrading High‐Relief Carbonate Platform (Cantabrian Mountains, N Spain).” Sedimentology51, no. 2: 267–295. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365‐3091.2003.00621.x.
     [Google Scholar]
  32. della Porta, G., O.Merino‐Tomé, J. A. M.Kenter, and K.Verwer. 2014. “Lower Jurassic Microbial and Skeletal Carbonate Factories and Platform Geometry (Djebel Bou Dahar, High Atlas, Morocco).” In Deposits, Architecture, and Controls of Carbonate Margin, Slope, and Basinal Settings, 237–263. SEPM (Society for Sedimentary Geology). https://doi.org/10.2110/sepmsp.105.01.
     [Google Scholar]
  33. Deraisme, J., and N.Jeannee. 2020. “Quantifying Uncertainty in Depth Conversion and Volumetrics.”https://doi.org/10.3997/2214‐4609‐pdb.8.t001.
  34. Dorobek, S. L.2011. “Tectonic and Depositional Controls on Syn‐Rift Carbonate Platform Sedimentation.” In Controls on Carbonate Platform and Reef Development, 57–81. SEPM (Society for Sedimentary Geology). https://doi.org/10.2110/pec.08.89.0057.
     [Google Scholar]
  35. Duffy, O. B., R. E.Bell, C. A. L.Jackson, R. L.Gawthorpe, and P. S.Whipp. 2015. “Fault Growth and Interactions in a Multiphase Rift Fault Network: Horda Platform, Norwegian North Sea.” Journal of Structural Geology80: 99–119. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsg.2015.08.015.
     [Google Scholar]
  36. Ebdon, C. C., A. J.Fraser, A. C.Higgins, B. C.Mitchener, and A. R. E.Strank. 1990. “The Dinantian Stratigraphy of the East Midlands: A Seismostratigraphic Approach.” Journal of the Geological Society of London147, no. 3: 519–536. https://doi.org/10.1144/gsjgs.147.3.0519.
     [Google Scholar]
  37. Eberli, G. P., and C.Betzler. 2019. “Characteristics of Modern Carbonate Contourite Drifts.” Sedimentology66, no. 4: 1163–1191. https://doi.org/10.1111/sed.12584.
     [Google Scholar]
  38. Elam, S. D., J.Beall, and C.Wood. 2020. “Depth Conversion and Uncertainty of Depth Migrated Seismic From the Southern North Sea.”https://doi.org/10.3997/2214‐4609‐pdb.5.f015.
  39. Elvebakk, G., D. W.Hunt, and L.Stemmerik. 2002. “From Isolated Buildups to Buildup Mosaics: 3D Seismic Sheds New Light on Upper Carboniferous‐Permian Fault Controlled Carbonate Buildups, Norwegian Barents Sea.” Sedimentary Geology152, no. 1‐2: 7–17. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0037‐0738(02)00232‐4.
     [Google Scholar]
  40. Embry, J. C., D. W.Hunt, A.Colpaert, A.Dræge, and L.Zahm. 2021. “Seismic Facies, Stratigraphy, Geomorphology, and Seismic Modelling of a Lower Cretaceous Carbonate Platform.” GeoPlogical Society Special Publication509, no. 1: SP509‐2020‐18. https://doi.org/10.1144/SP509‐2020‐18.
     [Google Scholar]
  41. EMODnet Bathymetry Consortium . 2022. “EMODnet Digital Bathymetry (DTM)–2022 Release.”Https://Www.Emodnet‐Bathymetry.Eu.
  42. Etienne, S., P.Le Roy, E.Tournadour, et al. 2021. “Large‐Scale Margin Collapses Along a Partly Drowned, Isolated Carbonate Platform (Lansdowne Bank, SW Pacific Ocean).” Marine Geology436: 106477. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.margeo.2021.106477.
     [Google Scholar]
  43. Fraser, A. J., and R. L.Gawthorpe. 1990. “Tectono‐Stratigraphic Development and Hydrocarbon Habitat of the Carboniferous in Northern England.” Geological Society Special Publication55: 49–86. https://doi.org/10.1144/GSL.SP.1990.055.01.03.
     [Google Scholar]
  44. Fraser, A. J., and R. L.Gawthorpe. 2003. “An Atlas of Carboniferous Basin Evolution in Northern England.” Marine and Petroleum Geology21, no. 3: 421. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpetgeo.2004.02.001.
     [Google Scholar]
  45. Fraser, A. J., D. F.Nash, R. P.Steele, and C. C.Ebdon. 1990. “A Regional Assessment of the Intra‐Carboniferous Play of Northern England.” Geological Society Special Publication50: 417–440. https://doi.org/10.1144/GSL.SP.1990.050.01.26.
     [Google Scholar]
  46. Fyhn, M. B. W., L. O.Boldreel, L. H.Nielsen, et al. 2013. “Carbonate Platform Growth and Demise Offshore Central Vietnam: Effects of Early Miocene Transgression and Subsequent Onshore Uplift.” Journal of Asian Earth Sciences76: 152–168. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jseaes.2013.02.023.
     [Google Scholar]
  47. Gamboa, D., J. D. O.Williams, M.Bentham, D. I.Schofield, and A. C.Mitchell. 2019. “Application of Three‐Dimensional Fault Stress Models for Assessment of Fault Stability for CO2 Storage Sites.” International Journal of Greenhouse Gas Control90: 102820. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijggc.2019.102820.
     [Google Scholar]
  48. Gawthorpe, R.1986. “Sedimentation During Carbonate Ramp‐to‐Slope Evolution in a Tectonically Active Area: Bowland Basin (Dinantian), Northern England.” Sedimentology33, no. 2: 185–206. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365‐3091.1986.tb00531.x.
     [Google Scholar]
  49. Gómez‐Pérez, I., P. A.Fernández‐Mendiola, and J.García‐Mondéjar. 1999. “Depositional Architecture of a Rimmed Carbonate Platform (Albian, Gorbea, Western Pyrenees).” Sedimentology46, no. 2: 337–356. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365‐3091.1999.00217.x.
     [Google Scholar]
  50. Gutteridge, P.2024. “Lacustrine and Palustrine Carbonates in a Brigantian (Late Dinantian) Intrashelf Basin in the Derbyshire Carbonate Platform.” Geological Journal59, no. 3: 951–964. https://doi.org/10.1002/gj.4901.
     [Google Scholar]
  51. Gutteridge, P., J.Ten Veen, J.Dewit, et al. 2025. “Regional Assessment of the Ultra‐Deep Geothermal (UDG) Reservoir Quality and Potential of the Dinantian Zeeland Formation, the Netherlands.” Geological Society, London, Special Publications548, no. 1: 267–290. https://doi.org/10.1144/sp548‐2023‐106.
     [Google Scholar]
  52. Hendry, J., P.Burgess, D.Hunt, et al. 2021. “Seismic Characterization of Carbonate Platforms and Reservoirs: An Introduction and Review.” Geological Society Special Publication509, no. 1: 1–28. https://doi.org/10.1144/SP509‐2021‐51.
     [Google Scholar]
  53. Hounslow, M. W., P.Cózar, I. D.Somerville, and A. J.Biggin. 2024. “Rock Magnetic‐Based Cyclic Expression in Late Visean Ramp Carbonates and an Astrochronology for the Late Asbian From Northwest England.” Paleoceanography and Paleoclimatology39, no. 3: e2023PA004772. https://doi.org/10.1029/2023PA004772.
     [Google Scholar]
  54. Hu, X., W.Zheng, X.Zhao, and B.Niu. 2023. “Quantitative Characterization of Deep Fault‐Karst Carbonate Reservoirs: A Case Study of the Yuejin Block in the Tahe Oilfield.” Energy Geoscience4, no. 3: 100153. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.engeos.2022.100153.
     [Google Scholar]
  55. Jackson, C. A. L., R. E.Bell, A.Rotevatn, and A. B. M.Tvedt. 2017. “Techniques to Determine the Kinematics of Synsedimentary Normal Faults and Implications for Fault Growth Models.” Geological Society Special Publication439, no. 1: 187–217. https://doi.org/10.1144/SP439.22.
     [Google Scholar]
  56. Jackson, C. A. L., and A.Rotevatn. 2013. “3D Seismic Analysis of the Structure and Evolution of a Salt‐Influenced Normal Fault Zone: A Test of Competing Fault Growth Models.” Journal of Structural Geology54: 215–234. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsg.2013.06.012.
     [Google Scholar]
  57. Jackson, D. I., A. A.Jackson, D.Evans, R. T. R.Wingfield, R. P.Barnes, and M. J.Arthur. 1995. United Kingdom Offshore Regional Report: The Geology of the Irish Sea. HMSO for the British Geological Survey.
     [Google Scholar]
  58. Jackson, D. I., H.Johnson, and N. J. P.Smith. 1997. “Stratigraphical Relationships and a Revised Lithostratigraphical Nomenclature for the Carboniferous, Permian and Triassic Rocks of the Offshore East Irish Sea Basin.” Geological Society Special Publication124: 11–32. https://doi.org/10.1144/GSL.SP.1997.124.01.02.
     [Google Scholar]
  59. Jackson, D. I., N. S.Jones, and C. N.Waters. 2011. “A Revised Correlation of Carboniferous Rocks in the British Isles.” Geological Society26: 110–116. https://doi.org/10.1144/SR26.16.
     [Google Scholar]
  60. Jackson, D. I., and P.Mulholland. 1993. “Tectonic and Stratigraphic Aspects of the East Irish Sea Basin and Adjacent Areas: Contrasts in Their Post‐Carboniferous Structural Styles.” Petroleum Geology Conference Proceedings4: 791–808. https://doi.org/10.1144/0040791.
     [Google Scholar]
  61. Jackson, D. I., P.Mulholland, S. M.Jones, and G.Warrington. 1987. “Proceedings 3rd Conference London.” In The Geological Framework of the East Irish Sea Basin. Petroleum Geology of North West Europe, vol. 1. Graham & Trotman Limited.
     [Google Scholar]
  62. Jiménez Berrocoso, Á., M.Masini, J.Salazar, A. O.Campos, and J. C. C.Hsieh. 2021. “Challenges of Carbonate Platform Identification and Characterization From Seismic Data in Frontier Exploration–Evaluating a Possible Miocene Example From the SE Caribbean.” Geological Society, London, Special Publications509, no. 1: 57–88. https://doi.org/10.1144/SP509‐2019‐200.
     [Google Scholar]
  63. Jones, D. J. R., T.Randles, T.Kearsey, T. C.Pharaoh, and A.Newell. 2023. “Deep Geothermal Resource Assessment of Early Carboniferous Limestones for Central and Southern Great Britain.” Geothermics109: 102649. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.geothermics.2023.102649.
     [Google Scholar]
  64. Juerges, A., C. E.Hollis, J.Marshall, and S.Crowley. 2016. “The Control of Basin Evolution on Patterns of Sedimentation and Diagenesis: An Example From the Mississippian Great Orme, North Wales.” Journal of the Geological Society173, no. 3: 438–456. https://doi.org/10.1144/jgs2014‐149.
     [Google Scholar]
  65. Jutras, P., J.McLeod, R. A.MacRae, and J.Utting. 2016. “Complex Interplay of Faulting, Glacioeustatic Variations and Halokinesis During Deposition of Upper Viséan Units Over Thick Salt in the Western Cumberland Basin of Atlantic Canada.” Basin Research28, no. 4: 483–506. https://doi.org/10.1111/bre.12119.
     [Google Scholar]
  66. Kenter, J. A. M.1990. “Carbonate Platform Flanks: Slope Angle and Sediment Fabric.” Sedimentology37, no. 5: 777–794. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365‐3091.1990.tb01825.x.
     [Google Scholar]
  67. Kirkham, A.2021. “Mass Collapse and Resedimentation on a Brigantian–Early Namurian Platform Margin, Halkyn–Mold Area, North Wales, UK.” Geological Journal56, no. 7: 3672–3686. https://doi.org/10.1002/gj.4127.
     [Google Scholar]
  68. Knipe, R. J., G.Cowan, and V. S.Balendran. 1993. “The Tectonic History of the East Irish Sea Basin With Reference to the Morecambe Fields.” Petroleum Geology Conference Proceedings4: 857–866. https://doi.org/10.1144/0040857.
     [Google Scholar]
  69. Koehl, J. B. P., G.Christophersen, M.Collombin, C.Taule, E. M. B.Stokmo, and L.Allaart. 2023. “Devonian‐Mississippian Faulting Controlled by WNW‐ESE‐Striking Structural Grain in Proterozoic Basement Rocks in Billefjorden, Central Spitsbergen.” Geologica Acta21: 1–16. https://doi.org/10.1344/GeologicaActa2023.21.7.
     [Google Scholar]
  70. Kombrink, H., H.van Lochem, and K. J.Zwan. 2010. “Seismic Interpretation of Dinantian Carbonate Platforms in the Netherlands; Implications for the Palaeogeographical and Structural Development of the Northwest European Carboniferous Basin.” Journal of the Geological Society167, no. 1: 99–108. https://doi.org/10.1144/0016‐76492008‐149.
     [Google Scholar]
  71. Kremor, J., M.Agarwal, P.Spaans, and U. S.Wong. 2019. “Depth Conversion and Seismic Inversion of the Scarborough Gas Field.” Exploration Geophysics2019, no. 1: 1–4. https://doi.org/10.1080/22020586.2019.12072991.
     [Google Scholar]
  72. Leeder, M. R., and R. L.Gawthorpe. 1987. “Sedimentary Models for Extensional Tilt‐Block/Half‐ Graben Basins.” Continental Extensional Tectonics28: 139–152.
     [Google Scholar]
  73. Lipsey, L. C., J. D.van Wees, and M. P. D.Pluymaekers. 2015. “First EAGE/TNO Workshop.” In Numerical Modelling of Thermal Convection Related to Fracture Permeability‐Implications for Geothermal Exploration and Basin Modelling. Harvard. https://doi.org/10.3997/2214‐4609.201412330.
     [Google Scholar]
  74. Loza Espejel, R., T. M.Alves, and T. G.Blenkinsop. 2019. “Distribution and Growth Styles of Isolated Carbonate Platforms as a Function of Fault Propagation.” Marine and Petroleum Geology107: 484–507. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpetgeo.2019.05.020.
     [Google Scholar]
  75. Lucas, S. G., J. W.Schneider, S.Nikolaeva, and X.Wang. 2022. “The Carboniferous Timescale: An Introduction.” Geological Society Special Publication512, no. 1: 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1144/SP512‐2021‐160.
     [Google Scholar]
  76. Lukasik, J., and J.Simo. 2008. “Controls on Carbonate Platform and Reef Development.” In Controls on Carbonate Platform and Reef Development. SEPM Society for Sedimentary Geology. https://doi.org/10.2110/pec.08.89.
     [Google Scholar]
  77. Makhankova, A., B.Sautter, M.Mathew, D.Menier, and M.Poppelreiter. 2021. “Seismic Stratigraphy and Sedimentology of a Miocene Carbonate Platform in Luconia, South China Sea.” Geological Journal56, no. 1: 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1002/gj.3942.
     [Google Scholar]
  78. Manifold, L., P.Del Strother, D. P.Gold, P.Burgess, and C.Hollis. 2021. “Unravelling Evidence for Global Climate Change in Mississippian Carbonate Strata From the Derbyshire and North Wales Platforms, UK.” Journal of the Geological Society178, no. 5: jgs2020‐106. https://doi.org/10.1144/jgs2020‐106.
     [Google Scholar]
  79. Manifold, L., C.Hollis, and P.Burgess. 2020. “The Anatomy of a Mississippian (Viséan) Carbonate Platform Interior, UK: Depositional Cycles, Glacioeustasy and Facies Mosaics.” Sedimentary Geology401: 105633. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sedgeo.2020.105633.
     [Google Scholar]
  80. Marangon, A., G.Gattolin, G.Della Porta, and N.Preto. 2011. “The Latemar: A Flat‐Topped, Steep Fronted Platform Dominated by Microbialites and Synsedimentary Cements.” Sedimentary Geology240, no. 3–4: 97–114. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sedgeo.2011.09.001.
     [Google Scholar]
  81. Marino, M., and M.Santantonio. 2010. “Understanding the Geological Record of Carbonate Platform Drowning Across Rifted Tethyan Margins: Examples From the Lower Jurassic of the Apennines and Sicily (Italy).” Sedimentary Geology225, no. 3–4: 116–137. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sedgeo.2010.02.002.
     [Google Scholar]
  82. Masaferro, J. L., R.Bourne, and J. C.Jauffred. 2005. Three‐Dimensional Seismic Volume Visualization of Carbonate Reservoirs and Structures. Vol. 81, 11–41. AAPG Memoir.
     [Google Scholar]
  83. Masiero, I., P.Burgess, C.Hollis, et al. 2021. “Syn‐Rift Carbonate Platforms in Space and Time: Testing and Refining Conceptual Models Using Stratigraphic and Seismic Numerical Forward Modelling.” Geological Society Special Publication509, no. 1: 179–203. https://doi.org/10.1144/SP509‐2019‐217.
     [Google Scholar]
  84. Mijnlieff, H. F.2020. “Introduction to the Geothermal Play and Reservoir Geology of the Netherlands.” Netherlands Journal of Geosciences99: e2. https://doi.org/10.1017/njg.2020.2.
     [Google Scholar]
  85. Moore, J. P., and J. J.Walsh. 2021. “Quantitative Analysis of Cenozoic Faults and Fractures and Their Impact on Groundwater Flow in the Bedrock Aquifers of Ireland.” Hydrogeology Journal29, no. 8: 2613–2632. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10040‐021‐02395‐z.
     [Google Scholar]
  86. Morton, A. C., J. I.Chisholm, and D.Frei. 2024. “Provenance Response to Evolving Palaeogeography Recorded by Carboniferous Sandstones in the Northern Pennine Basin, UK.” Sedimentary Geology470: 106691. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sedgeo.2024.106691.
     [Google Scholar]
  87. Mundy, D. J. C.1992. “Microbialite‐Sponge‐Bryozoan‐Coral Framestones in Lower Carboniferous (Late Visean) Buildups of Northern England (UK).” Canadian Society of Petroleum Geologists17: 713–729.
     [Google Scholar]
  88. Narayan, N. S., C. A.Adams, and J. G.Gluyas. 2021. “Karstified and Fractured Lower Carboniferous (Mississippian) Limestones of the UK – A Cryptic Geothermal Reservoir.” Zeitschrift der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Geowissenschaften172, no. 3: 251–265. https://doi.org/10.1127/zdgg/2021/0288.
     [Google Scholar]
  89. Needham, T., and R.Morgan. 1997. “The East Irish Sea and Adjacent Basins: New Faults or Old?” Journal of the Geological Society154, no. 1: 145–150. https://doi.org/10.1144/gsjgs.154.1.0145.
     [Google Scholar]
  90. Paumard, V., E.Zuckmeyer, R.Boichard, et al. 2017. “Evolution of Late Oligocene ‐ Early Miocene Attached and Isolated Carbonate Platforms in a Volcanic Ridge Context (Maldives Type), Yadana Field, Offshore Myanmar.” Marine and Petroleum Geology81: 361–387. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpetgeo.2016.12.012.
     [Google Scholar]
  91. Peacock, D. C. P., D. J.Sanderson, and A.Rotevatn. 2018. “Relationships Between Fractures.” Journal of Structural Geology106: 41–53. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsg.2017.11.010.
     [Google Scholar]
  92. Pharaoh, K., M.Kirk, M.Quinn, M.Sankey, and A. A.Monaghan. 2016. “Energy and Marine Geoscience Programme Commissioned Report.” In Seismic Interpretation and Generation of Depth Surfaces for Late Palaeozoic Strata in the Irish Sea Region, 65. Natural Environment Research Council.
     [Google Scholar]
  93. Pharaoh, T., R.Haslam, E.Hough, et al. 2020. “The Môn‐Deemster‐Ribblesdale Fold‐Thrust Belt, Central UK: A Concealed Variscan Inversion Belt Located on Weak Caledonian Crust.” Geological Society Special Publication490, no. 1: 153–176. https://doi.org/10.1144/SP490‐2018‐109.
     [Google Scholar]
  94. Pharaoh, T., D.Jones, T.Kearsey, et al. 2021. “Early Carboniferous Limestones of Southern and Central Britain: Characterisation and Preliminary Assessment of Deep Geothermal Prospectivity.” Zeitschrift der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Geowissenschaften172, no. 3: 227–249. https://doi.org/10.1127/zdgg/2021/0282.
     [Google Scholar]
  95. Pharaoh, T., N. J. P.Smith, K.Kirk, et al. 2016. Palaeozoic Petroleum Systems of the Irish Sea. British Geological Survey.
     [Google Scholar]
  96. Pharaoh, T. C., C. M. A.Gent, S. D.Hannis, et al. 2018. “An Overlooked Play? Structure, Stratigraphy and Hydrocarbon Prospectivity of the Carboniferous in the East Irish Sea‐North Channel Basin Complex.” Geological Society Special Publication471, no. 1: 281–316. https://doi.org/10.1144/SP471.7.
     [Google Scholar]
  97. Phillips, E., D. M.Hodgson, and A. R.Emery. 2017. “The Quaternary Geology of the North Sea Basin.” Journal of Quaternary Science32, no. 2: 117–126. https://doi.org/10.1002/jqs.2932.
     [Google Scholar]
  98. Pickard, N. A. H., J. G.Rees, P.Strogen, I. D.Somerville, and G. L. I.Jones. 1994. “Controls on the Evolution and Demise of Lower Carboniferous Carbonate Platforms, Northern Margin of the Dublin Basin, Ireland.” Geological Journal29, no. 2: 93–117. https://doi.org/10.1002/gj.3350290202.
     [Google Scholar]
  99. Pomar, L.2001. “Types of Carbonate Platforms: A Genetic Approach.” Basin Research13, no. 3: 313–334. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.0950‐091X.2001.00152.x.
     [Google Scholar]
  100. Quirk, D. G., and G. S.Kimbell. 1997. “Structural Evolution of the Isle of Man and Central Part of the Irish Sea.” Geological Society Special Publication124: 135–159. https://doi.org/10.1144/GSL.SP.1997.124.01.09.
     [Google Scholar]
  101. Reijmer, J. J. G.2021. “Marine Carbonate Factories: Review and Update.” Sedimentology68, no. 5: 1729–1796. https://doi.org/10.1111/sed.12878.
     [Google Scholar]
  102. Reijmer, J. J. G., J. H.Ten Veen, B.Jaarsma, and R.Boots. 2017. “Seismic Stratigraphy of Dinantian Carbonates in the Southern Netherlands and Northern Belgium.” Netherlands Journal of Geosciences96, no. 4: 353–379. https://doi.org/10.1017/njg.2017.33.
     [Google Scholar]
  103. Schlager, W.1992. “Sedimentology and Sequence Stratigraphy of Reefs and Carbonate Platforms.”https://doi.org/10.1016/0264‐8172(94)90087‐6.
  104. Schofield, D. I., A. G.Leslie, P. R.Wilby, R.Dartnall, J. W. F.Waldron, and R. S.Kendall. 2021. “Tectonic Evolution of Anglesey and Adjacent Mainland North Wales.” In Geological Society Special Publication (Vol. 503, no. 1). https://doi.org/10.1144/SP503‐2020‐9.
  105. Schofield, K., and A. E.Adams. 1985. “Stratigraphy and Depositional Environments of the Woo Dale Limestones Formation (Dinantian), Derbyshire.” Proceedings of the Yorkshire Geological Society45, no. 4: 225–233. https://doi.org/10.1144/pygs.45.4.225.
     [Google Scholar]
  106. Smit, J., J. D.van Wees, and S.Cloetingh. 2018. “Early Carboniferous Extension in East Avalonia: 350 My Record of Lithospheric Memory.” Marine and Petroleum Geology92: 1010–1027. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpetgeo.2018.01.004.
     [Google Scholar]
  107. Smith, L. B., and J.Fred Read. 2000. “Rapid Onset of Late Paleozoic Glaciation on Gondwana: Evidence From Upper Mississippian Strata of the Midcontinent, United States.” Geology28, no. 3: 279. https://doi.org/10.1130/0091‐7613(2000)28<>2.0.CO;2.
     [Google Scholar]
  108. Somerville, I. D.2003. Review of Irish Lower Carboniferous (Mississippian) Mud Mounds; Depositional Setting, Biota, Facies, and Evolution.; Permo‐Carboniferous Carbonate Platforms and Reefs, 78. Special Publication‐Society for Sedimentary Geology.
     [Google Scholar]
  109. Somerville, I. D.2005. Review of Irish Lower Carboniferous (Mississippian) Mud Mounds: Depositional Setting, Biota, Facies, and Evolution, 83. AAPG Memoir.
     [Google Scholar]
  110. Somerville, I. D.2008. “Biostratigraphic Zonation and Correlation of Mississippian Rocks in Western Europe: Some Case Studies in the Late Viséan/Serpukhovian.” Geological Journal43, no. 2–3: 209–240. https://doi.org/10.1002/gj.1097.
     [Google Scholar]
  111. Somerville, I. D., and A. R. E.Strank. 1984. “The Recognition of the Asbian/Brigantian Boundary Fauna and Marker Horizons in the Dinantian of North Wales.” Geological Journal19, no. 3: 227–237. https://doi.org/10.1002/gj.3350190303.
     [Google Scholar]
  112. Somerville, I. D., A. R. E.Strank, and A.Welsh. 1989. “Chadian Faunas and Flora From Dyserth: Depositional Environments and Palaeogeographic Setting of Viséan Strata in Northeast Wales.” Geological Journal24, no. 1: 49–66. https://doi.org/10.1002/gj.3350240105.
     [Google Scholar]
  113. Stuart, I. A., and G.Cowan. 1991. “The South Morecambe Field, Blocks 110/2a, 110/3a, 110/8a, UK East Irish Sea.” Geological Society Memoir14, no. 1: 527–541. https://doi.org/10.1144/GSL.MEM.1991.014.01.66.
     [Google Scholar]
  114. Swennen, R., E.van der Voet, W.Wei, and P.Muchez. 2021. “Lower Carboniferous Fractured Carbonates of the Campine Basin (NE‐Belgium) as Potential Geothermal Reservoir: Age and Origin of Open Carbonate Veins.” Geothermics96: 102147. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.geothermics.2021.102147.
     [Google Scholar]
  115. Underhill, J. R., and N.Richardson. 2022. “Geological Controls on Petroleum Plays and Future Opportunities in the North Sea Rift Super Basin.” AAPG Bulletin106, no. 3: 573–631. https://doi.org/10.1306/07132120084.
     [Google Scholar]
  116. van der Voet, E., B.Laenen, P.Muchez, et al. 2022. “Controls of Dolomitization and Bed Thickness on Fracture Networks in Lower Carboniferous Carbonates in Southern Belgium.” Journal of Structural Geology164: 104729. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsg.2022.104729.
     [Google Scholar]
  117. Van Der Voet, E., B.Laenen, B.Rombaut, M.Kourta, and R.Swennen. 2020. “Fracture Characteristics of Lower Carboniferous Carbonates in Northern Belgium Based on FMI Log Analyses.” Netherlands Journal of Geosciences99: e8. https://doi.org/10.1017/njg.2020.6.
     [Google Scholar]
  118. van Hulten, F. F. N.2012. “Devono‐Carboniferous Carbonate Platform Systems of The Netherlands.” Geologica Belgica15, no. 4: 284–296.
     [Google Scholar]
  119. Van Tuyl, J., T.Alves, L.Cherns, G.Antonatos, P.Burgess, and I.Masiero. 2019. “Geomorphological Evidence of Carbonate Build‐Up Demise on Equatorial Margins: A Case Study From Offshore Northwest Australia.” Marine and Petroleum Geology104: 125–149. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpetgeo.2019.03.006.
     [Google Scholar]
  120. Van Tuyl, J., T. M.Alves, and L.Cherns. 2018. “Geometric and Depositional Responses of Carbonate Build‐Ups to Miocene Sea Level and Regional Tectonics Offshore Northwest Australia.” Marine and Petroleum Geology94: 144–165. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpetgeo.2018.02.034.
     [Google Scholar]
  121. Waters, C. N.2009. “Carboniferous Geology of Northern England.” Journal of the Open University Geological Society30, no. 2: 5–16.
     [Google Scholar]
  122. Waters, C. N.2011. “A Revised Correlation of Carboniferous Rocks in the British Isles.” In A Revised Correlation of Carboniferous Rocks in the British Isles. Geological Society of London. https://doi.org/10.1144/sr26.
     [Google Scholar]
  123. Waters, C. N., R. B.Haslam, P.Cózar, I. D.Somerville, D.Millward, and M.Woods. 2017. “Mississippian Reef Development in the Cracoe Limestone Formation of the Southern Askrigg Block, North Yorkshire, UK.” Proceedings of the Yorkshire Geological Society61, no. 3: 179–196. https://doi.org/10.1144/pygs2016‐374.
     [Google Scholar]
  124. Weij, R., J. J. G.Reijmer, G. P.Eberli, and P. K.Swart. 2019. “The Limited Link Between Accommodation Space, Sediment Thickness, and Inner Platform Facies Distribution (Holocene–Pleistocene, Bahamas).” Depositional Record5, no. 3: 400–420. https://doi.org/10.1002/dep2.50.
     [Google Scholar]
  125. Worthington, R. P., and J. J.Walsh. 2011. “Structure of Lower Carboniferous Basins of NW Ireland, and Its Implications for Structural Inheritance and Cenozoic Faulting.” Journal of Structural Geology33, no. 8: 1285–1299. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsg.2011.05.001.
     [Google Scholar]
  126. Wright, V. P.1980. “Climatic Fluctuation in the Lower Carboniferous.” Naturwissenschaften67, no. 5: 252–253. https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01054535.
     [Google Scholar]
  127. Wright, V. P., and S. D.Vanstone. 2001. “Onset of Late Palaeozoic Glacio‐Eustasy and the Evolving Climates of Low Latitude Areas: A Synthesis of Current Understanding.” Journal of the Geological Society158, no. 4: 579–582. https://doi.org/10.1144/jgs.158.4.579.
     [Google Scholar]
  128. Yaliz, A., and T.Chapman. 2003. “The Lennox Oil and Gas Field, Block 110/15, East Irish Sea.” Geological Society Memoir20, no. 1: 87–96. https://doi.org/10.1144/GSL.MEM.2003.020.01.07.
     [Google Scholar]
  129. Zampetti, V., W.Schlager, J. H.van Konijnenburg, and A. J.Everts. 2004. “Architecture and Growth History of a Miocene Carbonate Platform From 3D Seismic Reflection Data; Luconia Province, Offshore Sarawak, Malaysia.” Marine and Petroleum Geology21, no. 5: 517–534. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpetgeo.2004.01.006.
     [Google Scholar]
/content/journals/10.1111/bre.70072
Loading
Structural Control on the Complex Platform to Basin Transition of a Mississippian Carbonate Platform in the Southern East Irish Sea Basin, UK
Basin Research 37, e70072 (2025); https://doi.org/10.1111/bre.70072
/content/journals/10.1111/bre.70072
/content/journals/10.1111/bre.70072
Loading

Data & Media loading...

  • Article Type: Research Article
Keyword(s): carbonate geometry; carbonate platform; Mississippian carbonate; platform growth; platform margin

Most Cited This Month Most Cited RSS feed

This is a required field
Please enter a valid email address
Approval was a Success
Invalid data
An Error Occurred
Approval was partially successful, following selected items could not be processed due to error