Ground investigations are set to begin along the Ventnor coastline this summer as plans progress for a major coastal defence scheme designed to protect the Isle of Wight
town from erosion for decades.
The surveys, led by the Environment Agency in partnership with the Isle of Wight Council, mark the next stage in developing a long-term plan to refurbish 3.6km of coastal defences along Ventnor's seafront. Construction is currently expected to begin in 2030, subject to planning approvals, environmental assessments and funding.
Engineers will use the investigations to gather detailed information about ground conditions, the existing seawall and surrounding environment, helping to finalise the design of the proposed scheme, which aims to safeguard the coastline for the next 60 years.
The first phase, beginning next week, will involve non-invasive surveys along the seafront and nearby areas. Specialist teams will scan and map the ground and existing infrastructure, with officials saying the work is not expected to disrupt residents or visitors.
More extensive investigations are planned for later this year, when engineers will drill boreholes and excavate trial trenches at selected sites on the beach to assess local geology and the condition of the current sea defences.
Temporary access restrictions may be required around some work areas during these investigations, although project leaders said disruption would be kept to a minimum and advance notice would be given to the community.
Nick Gray, the Environment Agency's area flood and coastal risk manager, described the surveys as "a vital milestone" in developing a long-term solution that will both protect the coastline from erosion and preserve Ventnor's seafront for future generations.
Natasha Dix, the Isle of Wight Council's service director for waste, environment and planning, said the investment was intended to secure the future of the seafront while maintaining its importance for local residents and visitors.
She said the council, as owner of the seafront, was working closely with the Environment Agency to ensure the project strengthens the town's resilience while preserving the character of one of the island's best-known coastal locations.
Ventnor sits on the Undercliff, the largest urbanised landslide complex in north-west Europe, making its coastal defences a crucial part of stabilising the land beneath the town. The proposed refurbishment is intended to help protect around 3,300 homes, businesses and key infrastructure from coastal erosion and ground instability.
Current plans include repairing existing seawalls and esplanades, constructing wave return walls and installing rock revetments along parts of the shoreline.
Project leaders said community consultation had helped shape the proposals, with more than 400 people attending public engagement events in 2025. Feedback showed strong support for coastal protection that improves resilience while preserving the character and accessibility of Ventnor's historic seafront. Photo by Andreas Trepte, Wikimedia commons.
