The Environment Agency, in partnership with Isle of Wight Council, are launching ground investigations this summer
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.
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
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.
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
