This is why work will start this week along the Southsea promenade

Contractors for the Southsea Coastal Scheme are returning to the seafront to continue essential ground investigation work needed for the detailed engineering design of the new sea defences.

The investigations are expected to take place over a period of eight weeks at two locations - on the promenade and beach adjacent to the naval memorial as well as to the east of South Parade Pier.

Councillor Pitt, Portsmouth City Council's deputy leader, said: 'The new Southsea Coastal Scheme is still urgently needed to replace our outdated defences in Southsea and protect the area from the risk of flooding.

'Although many projects will be affected by the current situation, it is important for us to move forward where possible and safe to do so. The nature of the ground investigation work allows for social distancing for staff and public and is crucial in order to progress with our new sea defences.'

Various types of machinery will be used as part of the work including borehole rigs, excavators and dynamic probes. However, these will be used for the ground investigation and not part of construction of the defences themselves.

Work sites will be contained using temporary fencing and will be supervised by on-site contractors and all necessary measures to keep staff and the public safe are will be in place including guidelines of social distancing and hygiene on site.

Working hours will be between 7am and 7pm and the engineers will aim to minimise disruption wherever possible.

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