Why are Placentia residents demanding a new sea wall?

The current sea wall is decades old, has exceeded its expected lifespan, and is failing to prevent flooding in the community.

What critical infrastructure is at risk in Placentia?

Placentia's hospital, school, trade school, and drug stores are located near the ocean and are threatened by flooding.

What are the contributing factors to Placentia's flooding issues?

Factors include rising sea levels, climate change, and the historical placement of community infrastructure close to the sea.

Home / Environment / Placentia's Sea Wall Crumbles: Residents Demand Urgent Replacement

Placentia's Sea Wall Crumbles: Residents Demand Urgent Replacement

24 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Placentia residents are urging the government to replace the aging sea wall.
The current sea wall has exceeded its 20-25 year lifespan.
Critical infrastructure, including hospitals and schools, is at risk from flooding.

Residents on Newfoundland's Avalon Peninsula are petitioning the provincial government for a new sea wall. The current structure in Placentia, built decades ago, is now succumbing to age, leading to recurrent flooding of roads and driveways. Mayor Jamie Neville expressed serious concerns, stating the wall's lifespan has long passed and recounting a severe Christmas Day flood in 1992.

The aging sea wall poses a significant risk to Placentia, a community established historically on its coastline. Essential services like the hospital, school, and drug stores are situated in low-lying areas, making them vulnerable to coastal erosion and rising sea levels exacerbated by climate change. Business owner Mary Collins noted her establishment has experienced flooding as the wall deteriorates.

Neville has formally communicated his concerns to the province, advocating for the sea wall's replacement and extension, along with infrastructure improvements to manage water pressure. He expressed hope for governmental cooperation to implement necessary solutions, drawing parallels to ambitious coastal projects elsewhere to underscore the feasibility of securing Placentia's future against coastal threats.