A major flood defence scheme that will significantly reduce flood risk to over 2,300 properties in Shoreham-by-Sea and Lancing has taken a step towards completion
The Shoreham Adur Tidal Walls Scheme, a major flood defence project aimed at protecting over 2,300 homes and businesses in Shoreham-by-Sea and Lancing, has reached a crucial milestone. The completion of work on Reach E3 of the project has allowed the reopening of the northern section of the Downs Link and Lower Beach Road on 8 December, marking significant progress in the £32 million scheme.
The project, led by the Environment Agency, consists of ten individual reaches, of which eight are currently under construction. The recently completed Reach E3 features raised walls and embankments, with steel piling installed along the landward side of the path and clad with brick to ensure a visually appealing finish. The Downs Link path, which had been temporarily diverted during the construction phase, is now fully restored for public use.
Advanced modelling conducted as part of the project has brought significant improvements to the original plan. Initially, major roadworks along the A283 were expected to cause a 12-week closure in 2018. However, updated data showed that these works would benefit only a small number of properties. Alternative solutions will now be implemented to ensure those homes receive a high level of flood protection, avoiding the need for disruptive road closures altogether.
“When complete, the Shoreham scheme will reduce the tidal flood risk to thousands of homes and a significant number of commercial properties in the area, as well as important local infra.”
-Phil Prydderch, EA senior official
Elsewhere in the scheme, progress continues on multiple fronts. At Emerald Quay and Sussex Wharf, work on the slipway and the installation of the first panes of glass for the riverside flood defence are advancing. Construction of the new wall at Ferry Bridge is nearing completion, and vegetation clearance at Riverbank has been finalised in preparation for work to begin in the new year. Other key areas, including Shoreham Harbour Club, Shoreham Fort, and sections behind the High Street, have seen substantial progress, with many now open to the public.
Phil Prydderch, Shoreham Adur Tidal Walls Manager at the Environment Agency, highlighted the project’s benefits: “It’s great news for Shoreham-by-Sea residents that we will be able to enhance their flood protection without the planned road closures. We are committed to protecting all members of the community and will continue to work with local residents to make them more resilient against flooding.”
The Shoreham Adur Tidal Walls Scheme will significantly reduce the risk of tidal flooding to thousands of residential and commercial properties. It will also safeguard critical infrastructure, including the local road network, railway line, and Shoreham Airport. Once completed, the project will contribute to the Environment Agency’s national goal of reducing flood risk for at least 300,000 homes by 2021.
Residents can learn more about the scheme by visiting the dedicated project visitor centre at Beach Green Car Park in Shoreham-by-Sea. The centre is open on weekdays from midday to 5:00 pm. Additional details are available on GOV.UK or by calling 03708 506506. This milestone underscores the Environment Agency’s commitment to protecting communities from flooding while minimising disruption and enhancing local infrastructure.
