A whole lotta rock
Rock revetment complete(ish)
We’re pleased to report that the rock armour work at Ports Creek is now almost complete, with an impressive 14,000 tonnes of rock placed by our contractor, Knights Brown.
This rock revetment plays a crucial role in the scheme – it protects the embankment from erosion, ensuring the embankment defends for our coastline for years to come.
A small section near Peronne Road Bridge is awaiting completion, as we’re working in partnership with SSE to accommodate important underground cable upgrades that will support local infrastructure. Once their work has been completed, we will return to place the final stretch of flood defence works and landscaping in the impacted area. We will keep residents updated as soon as we have more information on timelines.
Path markings explained – no changes ahead
We have had a few residents reach out after noticing markings on the path near our site. While they may suggest something more dramatic, we are happy to confirm that there is no unexpected work planned.
The markings simply show where our work was planned to connect with the existing path, which have been refined to a much smaller tie-in detail. No additional construction is scheduled in this area, and there will be no further closures or diversions beyond those already in place.
Bag it like it’s rock
Gabions, geobags & Kingfisher hideaways
Over by the railway bridge, we have made great progress on the moat overpass.
Next to the gabions, you will spot what is called a Flex MSE wall, built using black geobags. These are made from geotextile (the same material used beneath the rock revetment) and filled with soil. This type of wall is a sustainable alternative to traditional hardscape solutions like concrete or steel. It is designed to withstand erosion and stabilise the overpass – and soon, we will be hydroseeding it (the same technique as used on the embankment). Over time, it will be covered in plants and wildflowers, blending beautifully into the landscape.
And here is something to chirp about: four kingfisher tunnels have now been installed within the Flex MSE wall. You can just about spot the entrances, which are currently closed off while works continue. Once complete, they will be opened and ready to welcome our colourful feathered friends. May they all come flying in!
Come and speak to us next week!
Ever wondered what’s really going on behind the hoardings? Come meet the teams behind Portsmouth’s two major coastal defence schemes – at our joint exhibition at CourtX in Southsea.
CourtX Tennis Centre, Eastern Parade,
Southsea PO4 9RF
Friday 15 August 3pm – 7pm
Saturday 16 August 10am – 2pm
See our latest plans and meet our engineers, designers and engagement specialists ready to answer your questions and share the story behind the scenes.
From flood protection and habitat restoration to heritage protection, public art, and community spaces, discover how these projects are shaping a safer, more accessible and sustainable shoreline for Portsmouth.
Making waves at Hilsea Lido
Sea Lanes Brighton joins the pool party!
Over the road at Hilsea Lido, there’s been some big news! The experienced team behind Sea Lanes Brighton has been chosen as the preferred operator for the beloved lido and splash pool.
The team at Sea Lanes, Brighton, are a passionate group of local businesses and open-water swimming enthusiasts, who will partner with South Downs Leisure to steward the regeneration of Hilsea Lido. Together, their shared vision is to create a financially and environmentally sustainable, inclusive, and accessible leisure destination for all to enjoy.
First up they’ll bring in a sauna, as well as pop-up food and drink offerings to compliment the unheated pool. They want to work with the local community shape the future of the lido.
Visit the newly launched hilsealido.co.uk, where you can watch a video with lots more information.
You can also have your say on what you would like to see at the lido by completing the survey and sign-up for email updates on their exciting plans!
