Scheme Background

The Shoreline Management Plan

A Shoreline Management Plan (SMP) is a high level policy document setting out a framework for future management of the coastline.

The SMP makes recommendations on how the coastline should be managed over the next 100 years. It was adopted by Gosport Borough Council in 2010 and recommends a ‘Hold the line’ policy to maintain or upgrade the level of protection provided by the coastal defences in this area.

The River Hamble to Portchester Strategy

A strategy looks at how the SMP policy can be implemented at a more local level and identifies areas where work may be required over the next 100 years.

The River Hamble to Portchester Strategy covers a 58km (36 mile) stretch of coastline between Burridge on the east bank of the River Hamble and Portchester Castle (in Portsmouth Harbour). This coastal frontage is highly varied and ranges from very sheltered estuarine and creek environments to much more exposed open coast beach environments.

The Schemes

The strategy recommended three priority schemes in three areas of Gosport. Forton, Seafield and Alverstoke are referred to by the strategy as “vulnerable areas” in which there is significant risk of tidal flooding.