The objective of this project is to provide a coordinated, chemical and physical characterisation of the sediments and soils of Bull Island and its intertidal area. Data on organic pollutants and on characteristics such as particle size, metal content, pH and percentage organic matter has been recorded and mapped for future use. This data will now act as a baseline for future studies that investigate environmental change over time. Source and distribution of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and metals including iron, chromium, calcium, aluminium and lead were analysed to further understand anthropogenic influence on the area. A range of methods were utilised to quantitatively assess the organic and inorganic input into the bay. Statistical analysis was carried out to determine relationships between variables tested and similarities between samples. Results show that PAHs present in the bay had a common source of combustion, indicating anthropogenic input. Organic matter content and Total Organic Carbon to total nitrogen ratios (C:N) showed that terrestrial material has a large influence on pollution concentration in the area. Principal component analysis (PCA) indicated strong linear relationships between PAH content and total organic carbon (TOC), and also a strong linear trend between lead and TOC. A PAH survey one year later indicates that these results vary over time and that consistent, temporal studies are required to understand the environmental dynamics of the area and to predict coastal change.