Works to futureproof Weston Shore come to an end

Important work to futureproof Southampton’s coastal area of Weston Shore has been completed, meaning the risk of coastal erosion has been reduced

The new rock armour revetment will protect the area from future coastal erosion and enable people to enjoy the area for longer.

Weston Shore is Southampton’s only publicly accessible natural coastline, with areas of shingle beach and mudflats that provide a habitat for wildlife and a point of interest for visitors engaging in recreation and leisure activities.

The project, delivered by Balfour Beatty Living Places, includes new planting, rock pools, bird and bat boxes in Shoreburs Greenway and new benches, in addition to the rock armour defence. The work has taken place in the summer months to ensure that the abundance of wintering birds is not disturbed.

The proactive project team has also taken the opportunity to engage with local schools and carry out litter picks across the wider area.

Cabinet member for Housing and the Green Environment, Councillor Lisa Mitchell, said: “This project has been a huge success from start to finish. As a key part of Southampton that residents enjoy, it was important to maintain the area and ensure we minimise coastal erosion as much as possible. The team have worked brilliantly to complete the work ahead of schedule and most importantly, ahead of when the winter wildlife settles in. I’d like to thank everyone involved for ensuring this has moved smoothly, as well as the general public for their patience and understanding whilst there has been disruption.”

The coastline is now fully re-open to the public for walking, cycling and other leisure activities.