Environment Agency Plans Major Coastal Defence Upgrades in Worthing

The Environment Agency has formally announced plans to significantly enhance Worthing’s coastal defences, with the aim of protecting local homes, businesses, and streets from potential flooding.

The proposed project focuses on a 3.7km stretch of seafront, extending from Sea View Road to Brooklands Brighton Road car park. This initiative includes repairing the existing groyne field to a higher standard, offering protection against coastal flooding for up to 10 years while a long-term solution is developed. The project is set to commence in Autumn 2025, following expected approval in January 2025.

In addition to these repairs, the second phase of the project, planned for Autumn 2026 and 2027, will involve shingle movement works to further strengthen the defences.

The Environment Agency has also announced that it does not intend to prepare an environmental statement regarding the improvement works, with the public invited to make representations on the environmental effects until 14th September 2024. Further details are available on the government’s website at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/flood-defences-in-worthing-west-sussex/flood-defences-in-worthing-announcement-of-intention-not-to-prepare-an-environmental-statement