The Environment Agency is starting work this week on ground survey investigations for the Ventnor Coastal Defence Scheme - the Agency and Isle of Wight Council are carrying out a second phase of investigations along Ventnor seafront as work continues to develop the scheme.
Most active investigation work is expected to take between three and six weeks and full completion of investigations planned for end of November. Offshore marine habitat surveys are also underway as the scheme develops
This next stage follows surveys completed earlier this summer, which provided important information about the condition of the coastline, existing infrastructure and the surrounding environment.
The earlier investigations revealed significant build-ups of sediment and debris within parts of the drainage network, which in some locations prevented a full assessment of the system. This highlighted the need for further surveys to build a more complete understanding of its condition.
The new investigations will include boreholes along the seafront to collect ground samples and identify any hidden voids beneath the surface, along with trial pits on the foreshore. This information will help engineers and environmental specialists build a clearer picture of conditions beneath Ventnor’s coastline and shape future options for coastal defences.
Specialist marine habitat surveys are also taking place offshore. Using drop-down video equipment, survey teams are assessing underwater habitats along the coastline. This will help identify access and construction locations that avoid or reduce impacts on the protected habitats within the Maritime Special Area of Conservation.
Updates will also be shared throughout the programme via the project website: engageenvironmentagency.uk.engagementhq.com/ventnor-coastal-defence-scheme
Nick Gray, Area Flood and Coastal Risk Manager at the Environment Agency, said:
“Ventnor’s coastline plays an important role in protecting homes, businesses and local infrastructure from the impacts of coastal change. These investigations will give us the evidence we need to understand the challenges facing the coastline and develop options that can help reduce erosion risks.
“It’s an important step towards building a safer and more resilient future for Ventnor.”
The Ventnor Coastal Defence Scheme is being developed by the Environment Agency in partnership with Isle of Wight Council, which owns the existing coastal defence assets.
The investigations form part of the evidence-gathering work needed to assess and develop future coastal defence options for Ventnor.
Ground investigations include boreholes, trial pits and drainage surveys. Marine ecological surveys are also being carried out to help future designs avoid or minimise impacts on important coastal habitats wherever possible.
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