A programme of ground investigations is due to begin this summer as part of a major scheme to protect Ventnor’s coastline, marking the next significant step towards developing a long-term solution for the seafront.
The work is being led by the Environment Agency, in partnership with the Isle of Wight Council, which owns the seafront and plays a key role in shaping its future as a place for residents and visitors. The Environment Agency is leading the delivery of the scheme, alongside the council’s ongoing stewardship of the area.
The investigations will inform the detailed design of a proposed 3.6km coastal defence refurbishment scheme aimed at protecting Ventnor from coastal erosion for 60 years. The multi-million-pound project is currently programmed to begin construction in 2030.
The work will provide engineers and designers with vital information about the condition of the ground, seawall structures and surrounding environment, helping to shape the detailed design of the future scheme.
What the investigations involve
The first phase of investigations, beginning next week, will involve survey work along the seafront and surrounding areas.
Residents and visitors may see specialist survey teams using equipment to scan, map and measure ground conditions and existing infrastructure, all without disruption to the area
Boreholes and trial trenches this autumn
Later in the year, from autumn into winter, more in-depth ground investigations will take place at selected locations.
These will include drilling boreholes and digging trial trenches on the beach to collect samples and provide a better understanding of the local geology and the condition of the existing coastal defences.
Possible access restrictions
To safely carry out these investigations, there may be temporary localised access restrictions or closures around specific work areas.
The project team will work to minimise disruption wherever possible and further details will be shared with the community ahead of the work taking place.
What officials are saying
Nick Gray, Area Flood and Coastal Risk Manager at the Environment Agency said:
“We are delighted to be continuing our work with Isle of Wight Council on this important project for Ventnor.
“These investigations are a vital milestone in developing a long-term solution to help protect the coastline from erosion while refurbishing this much-loved seafront for future generations.”
Natasha Dix, the Isle of Wight Council’s service director for waste, environment and planning, said:
“This investment is about securing Ventnor’s seafront for the long term – not just protecting but sustaining it as a place for the community and visitors alike.”
“As asset owner and long-term steward, the council is focused on ensuring this scheme supports the town’s character, resilience and continued use as a valued public space, backed by strong evidence and partnership working with the Environment Agency.”
The wider scheme forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the resilience of Ventnor’s coastline, which plays a key role in supporting homes, businesses, infrastructure and the local tourism economy.
Further updates will be shared as planning and design work progresses.
News shared by the Environment Agency, in their own words. Ed
