Laying the groundwork
First layer of embankment being installed
The next major milestone in our project is now underway—the construction of the embankment has begun! The image captures the first layer of material being laid, marking the start of a carefully designed defence that will raise the stretch along the creek by approximately 1.8 metres.
By using natural materials, we are avoiding the need for concrete or walls, ensuring the area known for its natural feel remains both resilient and environmentally friendly. The embankment will provide the necessary defence height, while the rock toe along the creek will safeguard the shoreline from erosion.
Once complete, the embankment will feature a pathway along the top and a grass and wildflower-rich landward side, enhancing biodiversity and bringing natural beauty to the area.
see design illustration of embankment
Strengthening the moat crossing
Gabions prep work well underway
Further east near the railway bridge, preparations for the gabion installation are well underway. Gabions—rock-filled cages designed to prevent erosion—are being used to stabilise the crossing over the moat, ensuring long-term durability while maintaining the area’s natural integrity.
The image shows the excavations ready to install the gabions, a careful process to keep the causeway stable throughout construction. Once completed, this site will not only reinforce the crossing but also support local wildlife, as Kingfisher tunnels will be integrated to provide additional nesting spaces for our frequent feathered visitors.
Making a splash under cover
Making a splash under cover
Hilsea Lido is looking a bit different at the moment! You may have seen this large tent covering the pool – this is a temporary structure to keep the pool protected from the weather while the team do the finishing touches, including rendering, painting, tiling and fitting handrails.
The project will be completed in the early autumn and will be operated by PCC’s chosen tenant – who will be announced soon!
To stay up to date with the latest from the lido, subscribe to the fortnightly bulletin
High-Flying Efforts: Protecting Our Feathered Visitors!
Happy World Migratory Bird Day
This Saturday, 10 May, marks World Migratory Bird Day, with the theme Creating Bird-Friendly Cities & Communities. For the North Portsea Coastal Scheme, protecting wildlife is just as crucial as protecting Portsmouth from the risk of coastal flooding for the next 100 years.
You may recall in Phase 4, along Eastern Road, we paused work each winter to protect overwintering birds and even built Cockleshell Island—a high-tide resting spot for our visiting feathered friends. Now, in Phase 5 at Ports Creek, our bird friendly environmental enhancements continue. We’re restoring foreshore material to support marine life, we installed nesting boxes away from construction zones, and even adding Kingfisher tunnels for these stunning birds to name a few.
Want to learn more about how we balance sea defence work with conservation?
