The area reopened to the public this morning (Friday, May 24) after work was completed on this latest phase in the ongoing sea defences project. A highlight of the new coastal walk is a new split-level, terraced promenade dubbed the 'theatre of the sea' which surrounds Southsea Castle. The promenade design was also altered to include a historic triangular defence structure designed by the Dutch engineer Bernard De Gomme, uncovered during construction work.
Other highlights include 45 tide pools, a boulder garden for children to enjoy, swing benches and new seating, listening posts, wildflower gardens and the refurbishment of the bandstand in Bandstand Field – though this still currently remains off-limits to the public while the new lawn takes hold.
The News paid a visit to see the new-look area for ourselves:
1. Southsea Coastal walk
Local residents enjoy the new swing chairs along the promenadePicture: Habibur Rahman Photo: Habibur Rahman
2. Southsea Coastal walk
The split level promenade in front of Southsea CastlePicture: Habibur Rahman Photo: Habibur Rahman
3. Southsea Coastal walk
One of the new boulder gardens - using boulders reclaimed from the sea. The newly-repainted bandstand was also sparkling Picture: Habibur Rahman Photo: Habibur Rahman
4. Southsea Coastal walk
The Theatre of the Sea - a split-level promenade in front of Southsea Castle at the southernmost point of the coastlinePicture: Habibur Rahman Photo: Habibur Rahman