Find your way…
…and a place to stay (and sit)
Phase 5 is progressing well, and the team is now focused on all those finishing touches, including new furniture, path improvements and planting. As part of this, we have installed additional picnic benches and seating, along with the next two wayfinders, with 11 to be installed in total across this final phase. If you have been walking through Foxes Forest, you may have already spotted them.
They are currently fenced off while the foundations fully dry and cure, but will be opened soon. Each one will feature new information boards, covering topics such as local wildlife, ecology and history.
The design matches the wayfinders and furniture installed in earlier phases, helping to create a consistent look and feel along the whole route.
On the right path…
Anchorage Park path refresh work progressing nicely
The path refresh works at Anchorage Park are progressing well, and the team remains on track for full completion in early May. The foundation layers are now nearly in place, and we are starting to add the top layer of Breedon gravel.
Once the full surface is laid, all it needs is time and sunshine. These works (along with the new paths being delivered as part of Phase 5) are highly weather‑dependent, as the gravel requires dry conditions to properly set and cure. With favourable weather, the refreshed route will soon be ready for the community to enjoy.
On track…
Network railway’s mobilisation going swimmingly
Network Rail has now begun mobilisation for the major refurbishment programme on the Ports Creek railway bridge. As part of their preparations, pontoons have been installed on the water, allowing teams to access the underside of the bridge from the creek. This approach means they can carry out essential works without interrupting our ongoing coastal construction around the bridge.
The main programme which includes repair, strengthening and painting works runs from Tuesday 3 March to Friday 31 July 2026, with activity taking place during standard working hours and some planned periods of extended work. Residents may continue to notice machinery, lighting and temporary noise as work progresses.
For safety, the footpath beneath the railway bridge on the northern side of the creek remains closed for the duration of the project. Signage is in place throughout the area.
We will keep sharing updates as the works progress and as further activity becomes visible on site.
Dive back in!
The new operators of Hilsea Lido have confirmed the site will officially reopen on Saturday 2 May 2026.
Visitors can look forward to a new sauna, pop‑up food and drink, and a refreshed programme of activities alongside the much‑loved historic unheated pool.
These early enhancements will bring fresh energy and life back to the lido ahead of the larger‑scale regeneration still to come.
There’s plenty for the community to look forward to, including:
• Family‑friendly activities
• Open‑water swimming
• Recovery and wellbeing zones
• Social spaces and events
A limited number of Founder Memberships are still available for the first 500 sign‑ups.
