Sea defences to protect the north of the Portsmouth approved

Permission was granted for the fifth step in the North Portsea Coastal Scheme that will protect from Kendall's Wharf to Milton Common.

The improvements include a new vertical sea wall with stepped revetment, the raising of the existing coastal footpath, additional seating and viewing areas, and the creation of an offshore bird island.

Portsmouth City Council officer Alan Banting explained why the work was needed. Speaking to the council's planning committee on Wednesday (Feb 19) he said: 'There are existing sea defences, they have a residual life of around 10 years. But storm events that have already happened have resulted in over-topping.'

Project manager for the scheme, Caroline Timlett, said: 'The existing defences are quite old and too low.

'The new defences will have a 100 year design life. We are actually improving the area in terms of connectivity.'

Local groups had asked that the development was used as an opportunity for new cycle lanes. But officers said the existing coastal path would be retained.

Ms Timlett added: 'There will be a pathway which will also be a cycleway. We are installing various seating areas for people to sit and look out over Langstone Harbour.'

Concerns were also shared that the raised wall would limit the view of residents at the Harbourside Caravan Club. It was confirmed that a glass sheet would be part of the sea wall there.

It is hoped work will begin this spring.