Portsmouth Council appoints Knights Brown to finish off Portsea scheme

Portsmouth City Council has chosen Dorset construction firm Knights Brown to carry out the fifth and final phase of the North Portsea Coastal Scheme, starting in September.

The scheme represents one of the largest local authority-led coastal flood defence projects in the UK and is crucial for the protection of Portsmouth residents.

Newly erected defences span 8.4km of coastline from Tipner to Milton, safeguarding more than 4,000 homes and almost 500 businesses.

Most of these areas are low-lying, and many of the current coastal defences were approaching the end of their effective lives.

The final phase of works will take place along Ports Creek in North Portsea and will include 1.9km of flood defences.

The design comprises a sloped earth embankment with a rock armour toe to dissipate wave energy.

Works will also include planting trees, retaining the native scrub and wildflowers, installing nest and bat boxes, and introducing new seating, play and viewing areas along the coastal path for visitors.

It’s being carried out in collaboration with an on-site archaeologist and Historic England, as the work area is next to the Hilsea Lines – a line of 18th and 19th century fortifications built to protect the northern approach to Portsea Island.

They formed an important part of Portsmouth’s defences and are the best surviving example of a bastioned and casemated defensive line in England.

The project as a whole is funded by the Environment Agency and implemented by Coastal Partners on behalf of Portsmouth City Council.

Knights Brown also built the first and third phases of the scheme.

Mike Crook, divisional director at Knights Brown, said: “We’re delighted to be appointed as the principal contractor to carry out the fifth and final phase of the North Portsea Coastal scheme.

“The third award of the five-part scheme demonstrates our capability and trusted collaborative relationship with Coastal Partners.

“Our extensive expertise in coastal civil engineering, and our local knowledge, will enable us to deliver this essential flood defence scheme, which will safeguard residents and businesses for the next 100 years.”

Cllr Steve Pitt, leader of Portsmouth City Council, added: “We’re very pleased to be working collaboratively with Knights Brown on the final phase of the North Portsea Coastal Scheme.

“It’s an exciting time as we forge towards completing the final link in this vital £85.9 million sea defence project.”