Home / Environment / Southsea Beach Reopens After Flood Defence Shingle Pump
Southsea Beach Reopens After Flood Defence Shingle Pump
11 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Part of Southsea beach reopened after shingle pumped for flood defence.
- One million tonnes of shingle are being used to strengthen sea defences.
- The £180m project aims to protect over 10,000 homes from flooding.
A portion of Southsea beach has been made accessible again following ongoing flood defence construction. Dredging operations have deposited one million tonnes of shingle along the coastline, aiming to enhance sea defenses and mitigate flood risks.
This vital shingle is being pumped from a dredger as part of the extensive Southsea Coastal Scheme. The project, which commenced in September 2020, involves reinforcing sea walls and widening beaches over a 2.8-mile stretch, with completion anticipated in 2028.
The works are designed to significantly reduce the threat of flooding to over 10,000 homes and 700 businesses, a crucial measure against rising sea levels. A section west of South Parade Pier is temporarily open, though further closures are scheduled for pipe dismantling.
