Here are the parts of Southsea promenade that will be closed for two years from tomorrow

The walkway between the Blue Reef Aquarium and the Pyramids Centre will close from tomorrow (January 31) for construction of the second phase of the Southsea Coastal Scheme, which is expected to be completed in early 2024.

Fencing has been erected around the work area as the site is prepared in readiness for rock work and demolition of the existing sea defences.

A pedestrian diversion route will be in place around the landward side of works to Southsea Castle until work is complete.

Guy Mason, Southsea Coastal Scheme project director, said: ‘In accordance with our planning permission and recent communications, we have now fenced off an area of promenade for our Southsea Castle flood defence works to include areas for site storage.

‘While we understand this closure along the seafront may cause some inconvenience, it has been done in order to leave Southsea Common completely open to the public.

‘We have provided advice on periods of intensive works and the promenade closure to groups ranging from major events organisers to people holding their weddings at Southsea Castle.

‘In addition, we delayed taking possession of the site so people could continue to enjoy the promenade over Christmas and New Year.

‘I want to assure people that we will do our utmost to ensure minimum disturbance during this essential work, but please be aware that the schedule of operations is dependent on tide times so some night activity is inevitable.’

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This latest stage of the scheme - known as frontage four - has been designed to take the unique heritage of the area around Southsea Castle into consideration. The first stage of the works to begin was frontage one – between Long Curtain Moat and Clarence Pier.

The council’s planning boss, Councillor Hugh Mason, added: ‘This is an exciting stage of the scheme as it has the potential to completely transform the area into a 'theatre of the sea' that will attract locals and visitors alike.

‘The design will improve the openness and accessibility around Southsea Castle and along the seafront, while features such as a new split-level promenade will significantly enhance the environment for everyone.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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