When will Southsea beach fully reopen?

A short section of Southsea beach is temporarily open, with further closures expected around December 18 for equipment dismantling. The overall project is due for completion in 2028.

What is the Southsea Coastal Scheme?

The Southsea Coastal Scheme is a £180m project building flood defenses, raising land, and widening beaches along a 2.8-mile stretch to protect homes and businesses.

Why is shingle being pumped onto Southsea beach?

Shingle is being pumped to widen the beach and strengthen sea defenses, helping to absorb wave energy and prevent overtopping during storms.

Home / Environment / Southsea Beach Reopens After Flood Defence Shingle Pump

Southsea Beach Reopens After Flood Defence Shingle Pump

11 Dec, 2025

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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.

Southsea Beach Reopens After Flood Defence Shingle Pump

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.