Future Projects
Hamworthy Park Seawall (East) Repairs - Spring 2024
The planned repairs to the eastern end of the seawall form part of BCP Council’s Levelling Up Funding for seafront investment.
Project Overview
In Spring 2024, we are planning to reinforce and refinish the eastern facing seawall which protects the promenade and park from coastal flooding and erosion. This stretch of the seawall is 198m in length with a 4m return at the eastern end. The repairs will improve the condition and overall look of the wall and it is anticipated that the works will extend the life of the current concrete structure by another 20+ years.
BCP Council will appoint a contractor to carry out the works which we anticipate will take around 15 weeks to complete but this is subject to weather and tides.
The tender process is currently underway, and we anticipate that a contractor appointment will be made in early 2024.
The works are being carried out with Government Levelling Up Funding (LUF), to be invested in our seafront. £320,000 has been allocated for repairs to Hamworthy seawall.
Why the work is needed
Since 2020, the seawall has been visually inspected periodically and although there has been no observed new movement or rotation of the existing seawall, there are multiple historic cracks and failings of the construction joints. Previous patch repairs have also failed and this is allowing the sea to wash out material from under the exposed edge of the promenade, causing some sections to slump or fail.
Access & safety
It is likely that the works will be carried out in smaller sections. Access along the promenade and to beach huts will be maintained as much as possible throughout the project. Seafront Services will contact beach hut owners closer to the works start date in 2024 when we know more details (after the contractor is appointed).
When the works start, areas of the beach will be restricted for safety reasons. Please do not enter or pass the construction zone along the water’s edge, even at low tide, and keep dogs on leads.
Environmental Considerations
The site is adjacent to Poole Harbour which has a range of protected special designations including: Ramsar – wetland sites of international importance (especially as waterfowl habitat), Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Special Protection Area (SPA). The repairs are to an existing structure within the original footprint but Natural England will still advise when we are permitted to carry out the works to ensure the least disruption to the area’s protected wildlife.
About the Park
Hamworthy Park was officially opened in 1931, when eighteen acres of marshy land, with tidal lagoons and ditches, were transformed into a Community Park. It continues to offer residents and visitors a wonderful space to relax, exercise and play with unrivalled views of Poole Harbour, Brownsea Island, Arne and the distant Purbeck Hills. More information