Friends of Hamworthy Park would like to extend our sincere thanks to BCP Council, their Flood & Coastal Team, and Suttle Projects for successfully completing essential repairs to the Hamworthy Park sea wall. These works will protect the eastern promenade from coastal erosion for the next 20 years, ensuring that residents and visitors can continue to enjoy this beloved community space.
What’s Been Achieved
From September to November 2024, BCP Council carried out a £550,000 project to reinforce a 200-metre section of the seawall. Thanks to funding from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund (£318,000) and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) (£233,000), the project delivered:
- Strengthening of the seawall with low-carbon concrete
- New steps to the shoreline
- Repairs to two jetties
- Support buttresses to reinforce the wall
- Re-surfacing of the promenade
This is the first of many coastal protection projects planned across BCP’s seafront, funded by a £19.9 million government grant.
The Promenade Is Open Again!
We’re delighted to share that the works finished on 15 November 2024, and the promenade is now fully open. The contractor’s compound near the Outdoor Activity Centre will be removed from 18 November.
Cllr Andy Hadley, Cabinet Member for Climate Response, Environment & Energy, highlighted the significance of the project:
“Hamworthy Park is a vital community space, and these essential repairs will protect it for years to come. This is part of a wider effort to improve coastal infrastructure across BCP.”
Minister for Local Growth and Building Safety, Alex Norris, added:
“The completion of the Hamworthy Park Sea Wall project ensures that this beautiful space remains accessible and protected for the future.”
Why These Repairs Were Needed
Over the years, the sea wall had developed historic cracks and structural failures, leading to erosion beneath the promenade. Previous patch repairs had failed, making these essential works necessary to safeguard the park for future generations.
Protecting Our Environment
The repairs were carefully planned to minimise environmental impact. As Poole Harbour is a protected Ramsar site, SSSI, and SPA, Natural England approved work up until the end of November 2024 to avoid disturbing overwintering birds.
A Historic Park, Now Protected for the Future
Since its official opening in 1931, Hamworthy Park has been a cherished green space for the community, offering stunning views of Poole Harbour, Brownsea Island, and the Purbeck Hills. Thanks to this vital work, it will remain a safe and accessible space for all to enjoy.
Once again, a huge thank you to BCP Council and everyone involved in making this project happen!
Links: https://twobays.net/project/hamworthy-sea-wall-2024/
