This winter, Southsea’s beach—stretching from the Pyramids to the Coffee Cup café in Eastney—is set for a major revamp.
Portsmouth City Council has confirmed plans to bring in over a million tonnes of shingle by dredger, with the aim of doubling the beach’s size.
A smaller-scale version of the project was carried out earlier this year.
Southsea Coastal Scheme Project Executive Marc Bryan said: “We’ve chosen to build a larger shingle beach in this area because they’re great at absorbing wave energy which in turn helps reduce erosion and protects homes and businesses from coastal flooding.
“The new beach will adapt to rising seas and our changing climate while still providing the required standard of protection.
“It will be easily maintained and can be topped up if needed in the future.”
Preparations for Southsea’s beach transformation will kick off in October 2025, starting with the installation of a new outfall extension from Canoe Lake.
From November, a one-metre-wide pipeline will be laid across the beach west of South Parade Pier to deliver the incoming shingle. For safety, beach access will be restricted during this phase, though stepped crossings over the pipeline will be provided where possible.
The affected stretch of beach will be closed to the public while work is underway, reopening gradually from the Coffee Cup café moving westward as each section is completed.
The seafront promenade and nearby businesses will stay open throughout, though some local road closures will be in place around The Dell for the duration.
Once the shingle has been fully imported by March 2026, work will begin on constructing the new sea defences in the area.
Portsmouth City Council Leader Cllr Steve Pitt said: “The new beach is part of a smarter coastal management approach that works with nature, not against it, and will adapt to rising seas and our changing climate.
“In addition, it will bring space for recreation, tourism and local businesses.
“This innovative approach yet again demonstrates that the Southsea Coastal Scheme is more than just a sea defence project; it’s a promise to protect our coast, enhance our city and build a better future for all.”
South East Water announces hosepipe ban for Sussex and Kent
Teenager rescued from sand on beach in West Wittering
£1M+ approved to upgrade council buildings in Chichester
Police appeal after fatal crash near Horley
Plans to build 3,000 homes West of Ifield
Eastbourne day centre may avoid closure
New Road Safety Strategy aims to reduce death and serious injury on West Sussex roads
Appeal following fatal collision in Waterlooville
Armed police in Worthing
Appeal after a woman is injured by a dog in Steyning
On Air