FAQs

Ventnor’s coast is beautiful, but also vulnerable. The town sits on a historic landslip area, which means if the coastal defences fail, the ground behind them could become unstable and cause significant damage. Some sea defences are still in good condition, but others—especially those built in the 1970s and 80s—are showing signs of wear and could fail in the next 10 years if not repaired.

Without improvements, parts of the existing coastal defences may collapse. This would speed up erosion and could lead to landslips that put homes, businesses, roads, and wildlife at risk.

We’re still finalising the designs, but we’re looking at strengthening existing structures and using rock armour in priority areas like Western Cliffs, Eastern Esplanade, Wheelers Bay, and Bonchurch Seawall. Work would mostly take place from the sea to reduce disruption.

Yes – our aim is to maintain access along the seafront and preserve the promenade between Bonchurch and Ventnor. We’ll have to temporarily close some areas during construction to keep everyone safe, but we’ll do our best to minimise disruption.

We aim to begin work by 2030, starting with the most urgent areas. Before that, we must complete surveys, finalise designs, and get planning permission and environmental permits.

Funding will mostly come from the UK Government via the Environment Agency, but extra contributions may be needed from other organisations. The more public and environmental benefits the scheme offers, the more funding it can attract.

Yes. Rising sea levels and stronger storms are already affecting Ventnor. This scheme is being designed with the future in mind—to be effective for at least the next 60 years, and as part of a 100-year coastal plan.

Yes. Although the main works will go out to open tender, we want to see local small and medium businesses (SMEs) involved. We’ll share opportunities as the project progresses.

The scheme will cover 3.1 km of coast, from Monks Bay to Steephill Cove.

We’ll be doing more surveys in 2025, including:

• Seawall inspections (e.g. Bonchurch promenade)
• Marine habitat surveys
• Bathymetric mapping (underwater mapping)

We’ll also start early planning conversations, with a full planning application expected in 2026.

 IOW_FDschemes@environment-agency.gov.uk(External link)

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