A whole range of key projects will reach major milestones - or even be completed - in exciting times for our city which is also celebrating its 100th anniversary of achieving city status.
Leader of Portsmouth City Council, Councillor Steve Pitt said: “2026 is set to be an exciting year for Portsmouth, as we celebrate our centenary year as a city. Many of our major projects will start to move quickly in the new year, and others, such as the Hilsea Lido revamp and the North Portsea Coastal Scheme, will be complete.
“We are committed to investing in all areas across the city, improving the quality of life for our residents, alongside making Portsmouth an attractive place to live and invest in.”
We look at 13 major projects across our city and what 2026 has in store for them:
9. Leamington House and Horatia House
A major updated is expected in 2026 as to the timeline of this project to create hundreds of new homes, commercial spaces, and public areas. The project, called the Somers Orchard development, includes two main proposals that could significantly transform Somerstown - replacing Horatia House and Leamington House which were both fully demolished in November 2022. Two plans have been submitted, including this one, which together form a 'masterplan' for the redevelopment which will result in the creation of more than 500 new homes and several green spaces across Somers Town. The city council has said that work is ongoing and 'progressing positively to review the delivery options for Somers Orchard'. Further updates are expected early in 2026 - so watch this space! Photo: -
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10. Ports Creek sea defences
The last of the works to create new sea defences along the north of Portsea Island is set to be completed early in 2026 - meaning the new footpaths can finally open. The team is waiting for SSE to carry out some re-cabling works near the Portsbridge which will then enable to last of the new embankment to be created. Parts of the scheme will begin to open in early 2026, with full completion due in the summer. Meanwhile, improvements are also being made along Hilsea Lines to run alongside the scheme. This includes new signage and interpretation boards across the area. At Casemates in Bastion 4, the car park has is being re-laid and the drainage improved, which will help to support this important local business at the eastern end of the Hilsea Lines. But further improvements to signage, and an awareness campaign encouraging people to use and enjoy the area, will begin in 2026! | The News
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11. Restoration of HMS Victory
Conservation work is continuing at pace to fully restore the Royal Navy flagship HMS Victory, famous for Lord Nelson and the Battle of Trafalgar. Okay, we know it will not be finished next year - it is pencilled in for 2032 - but we cannot wait to see the progress which will be made next year! | NMRN
12. Bus improvement project
Works will continue in 2026 to improve the city's bus infrastructure in a bid to encourage greener travel. Accessibility improvements are being made to nine bus stops - including making it easier for people to get off and on with a pram or a wheelchair. This will be at St Luke's Church (stop N) on Isambard Brunel Road, Milton Road stop on Locksway Road, Charles Dickens Birthplace on Mile End Road, Copnor Bridge stop on New Road, Stride Avenue stop on Eastern Road, Hayling Avenue stop on Eastern Road, Angerstein Road stop on Twyford Avenue, Hayling Avenue stop on Baffins Road and the Kings Theatre stop on Albert Road. Work will also begin again in January 6 to improve the infrastructure at Hilsea. This will see the bus lane upgraded on London Road (A2047) near the News Centre bus, extending the bus lane on Northern Parade, adding an island over the existing separating lines in front of Hilsea Crescent flats. On top of this the shared footway and cycle path between Northern Parade junction and up to Hilsea Lido will be improved and resurfacing will also take place. | PCC