Preparations for the construction of 1.5km of new infrastructure from Poole Bridge to Hunger Hill has begun. The work will reduce tidal flood risk in Poole town centre, Poole Old Town and surrounding areas over the next century due to sea level rise.

BCP Council, in collaboration with the Environment Agency, landowners and other organisations, is committed to protecting residents’ homes and businesses with these essential defences. They are designed to adapt with rising sea levels and support long-term regeneration.

Over 570 properties currently face a present-day flood risk and, if nothing was done, this figure would rise to more than 2,000 properties over the next 100 years.

Cllr Andy Hadley, Portfolio Holder for Climate Response, Environment & Energy, BCP Council said:

“The eastern side of Holes Bay is the last remaining undefended waterfront in the town centre and this work is a major milestone to improve flood resilience for the people who call Poole home now, and in the future.

“There is a high and present-day risk of tidal flooding so sea walls will need to be raised at intervals to keep pace with climate change and rising sea levels.

“In addition to planning conditions and regulatory requirements, Holes Bay is a highly protected area due to the presence of migratory birds, breeding fish, and seahorses, which restricts when and how works can be undertaken. The project delivery team along with our partners have been working to finalise approvals and deliver these important defences within the available environmental working window.

“The project delivery team will continue to work with those with land interests directly impacted by the scheme, to progress agreements prior to construction, and we will be keeping residents updated.”

Ground raising works at Slip Way (Zone C), between the RNLI buildings, were completed in July 2025.

Preparation for the next phase of the scheme alongside the A350 / Holes Bay path and Lifeboat Quay (Zone A) started on 18 May.

Knights Brown was appointed to construct Zone A in August 2025; the company is an independent civil engineering and construction company delivering complex, high value projects across southern England, Wales and the UK’s energy network.

Mike Crook, Divisional Director, said:

“To carry out the preparatory activities safely, a temporary lane closure on Holes Bay Road (A350) will be re-introduced and we thank the local community in advance for their patience.

“To minimise disruption to pedestrian and cyclist commuters along the Holes Bay path, we intend to keep it open for as long as possible. However, when the path becomes part of the construction site, access will be restricted and the safe diversion route will be re-instated via Sterte Green. We urge everyone to use this alternative route for the safety of all path and road users.”