The Southsea Coastal Scheme team has installed a new timber safety barrier at Southsea Common in Portsmouth, Hampshire, to help protect the area from rising sea levels. This wooden structure separates the newly elevated road from the Hovertravel car park, which now sits at a lower level than the promenade. The project aims to provide flood protection for more than 10,000 homes and 700 local businesses.
Residents should prepare for further work starting February 23, 2026, when a temporary timber ramp will be built near South Parade Pier. This part of the project will take about one week to finish and will require the closure of the nearby loading bay during that time.
A major new phase of work is set to begin on March 2, 2026, covering the area from Speakers Corner to the pier. This section of the promenade will be closed to the public until May 2027 while the sea defences are upgraded. The new timber features are designed to help the modern flood defences blend in with the historic look of the common.
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