All listed memorials and monuments along the Southsea Common promenade in Portsmouth, Hampshire, were officially reinstalled on February 13, 2026. This move restores public access to the historic seafront walkway following a period of work to build new sea defences that had caused diversions for visitors since 2024.
According to the Southsea Coastal Scheme, the project has returned landmarks such as the HMS Trident and HMS Aboukir monuments to their original locations. These historic items, which honour naval personnel who died of yellow fever in the 19th century, were taken away for safekeeping after being damaged by severe weather and to allow the sea wall to be raised.
The promenade has been raised by about 0.6 metres to better protect the city from coastal flooding and rising sea levels. This section of the walkway now features an eight-metre-wide path and a dedicated memorial walk paved with traditional Yorkstone to maintain the historical look of the area while providing a safer environment for residents.
Work on this part of the coast began in October 2024, with new street lighting finished by the Southsea Coastal Scheme earlier this month. The project aims to secure thousands of homes and businesses from storm damage while ensuring the coastline remains a place for remembrance and exercise.
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