Background FAQs

Ageing infrastructure:

The Isle of Wight sea defences were originally built by Victorian engineers, with the seawall dating back to the early 1900s. Although some repairs have been made since then, much of the wall and groynes (wooden barriers on the beach) are now old and worn down from constant exposure to strong waves and weather. They are reaching the end of their useful life.  If nothing is done, the sea could eventually break through, putting homes, businesses, roads, and important wildlife areas at risk. 

Climate change:

Sea levels in southern England are expected to rise by over a metre in the next 100 years. Combined with more frequent and powerful storms, this will increase the risk of flooding and coastal erosion. The land behind Culver Parade is low-lying and at risk of serious flooding if the sea wall continues to weaken. That is why its so important that we invest now to strengthen and improve our existing coastal defences on the Isle of Wight - to protect our communities for the future.