Southsea sea defences: Promenade opening date revealed for stretch between Hovertravel and Blue Reef aquarium
The opening date has been revealed for the next completed section of Southsea seafront after the sea defences work - and it’s coming at a very opportune moment.
The stretch between the Blue Reef Aquarium and the Hovertravel terminal closed in October 2024, and has seen work take place to preserve the area from storms and high water - with the protection rated enough to protect it from one-in-200-year flooding.
Now Portsmouth City Council, which is overseeing the work in the Southsea Coastal Scheme, has revealed that this stretch will open on Thursday, April 2 - the day before the Easter long weekend.
People walking through the area will see Centenary Place - formerly known as Serpentine Square - which has become a social hub featuring a play area, seating and planting.
There is also a two-way cycle lane, a wider promenade, granite surfacing around the Naval War Memorial and a larger beach. The road will become part of a one-way system with a 20mph limit.
Work has started on the next phase of the scheme, which stretches from the other side of Blue Reef up to South Parade Pier. Sheet piling is taking place next to the pier to drive in metal to support a new flight of steps from the prom to the beach.