Posted on October 27, 2025
Brighton Beach joins Southsea, Paignton, Sidmouth, and Blackpool Sands for an epic coastal overhaul that will reshape the UK coastline in 2025. The UK’s most popular tourist beaches are set for major transformations aimed at boosting tourism and protecting the coast from climate change. With rising sea levels, more frequent storms, and increasing coastal erosion threatening these iconic spots, significant investments are being made to secure their future. Brighton Beach, a crucial part of the region’s £5 billion tourism economy, is at the heart of this ambitious initiative. The city’s seafront is not just a beautiful natural asset but also a central hub for the local economy. By embarking on this overhaul, Brighton, alongside other key UK beaches, is actively addressing the urgent challenges of climate change, ensuring the preservation of both its environment and economic stability for years to come.
Brighton Marina to River Adur Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Scheme
One of the most significant initiatives underway is the Brighton Marina to River Adur Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Scheme. This extensive project is planned to span approximately 10 kilometers of coastline, from Brighton Marina all the way to the River Adur. Given the coastal threats posed by rising sea levels, this scheme has been designed to reduce the risks of flooding and coastal erosion in the area, which could otherwise threaten both local infrastructure and the broader economy. The project is being executed in two phases, each targeting different parts of the coastline while addressing specific needs related to beach nourishment, coastal defense, and flood protection.
The first phase of the scheme has already seen significant progress. It includes the completion of the detailed design work, obtaining the necessary planning approvals, and beginning construction at key locations along the coast, such as Hove Deep Sea Anglers and Southwick Beach. This phase also involves the installation of essential infrastructure that will lay the groundwork for future efforts. These efforts primarily focus on improving the durability of the coastline against future erosion by constructing new groynes—structures designed to interrupt the flow of longshore drift and prevent the loss of sand and shingle from the beach.
The second phase of the project is where much of the more complex work will occur, including the most noticeable and impactful changes. Specifically, the second phase will focus on Kings Esplanade and Southwick Beach, areas that have been particularly vulnerable to coastal erosion in recent years. As part of the planned enhancements, old and outdated groynes will be removed and replaced with new, extended groynes to increase their effectiveness. The additional groynes, along with the further replenishment of the beach with shingle from the English Channel, will help stabilize the beach, ensuring that it can withstand the growing pressures caused by storms, rising tides, and fluctuating weather patterns. This phase has seen an increase in funding from the original budget of £6.515 million to £11 million to account for the additional cost of shingle replenishment, as well as inflationary pressures.
The completion of the Brighton Marina to River Adur scheme is expected by 2026, with the phased approach carefully planned to minimize disruption during the busy tourist seasons. Once completed, the scheme will offer much-needed protection to local homes, businesses, and infrastructure, while ensuring that Brighton’s beachfront remains an attractive and sustainable space for both locals and tourists. This initiative is a crucial part of the council’s broader vision to future-proof the city’s coastline.
Kings Esplanade Sea Defences
In addition to the broader Brighton Marina to River Adur scheme, the council is also undertaking specific initiatives aimed at enhancing coastal protection at Kings Esplanade. This area has long been a point of concern due to its proximity to the sea and the ongoing threat of erosion. The Kings Esplanade Sea Defences project is designed to complement the larger flood defense scheme and will be a key component of the city’s strategy to protect its iconic seafront.
This project focuses on the removal of existing groynes, many of which have reached the end of their lifespan and are no longer effective in preventing erosion. In their place, new extended groynes will be constructed, offering better protection for the beach and the surrounding infrastructure. Alongside the new groynes, the beach will be replenished with additional shingle, sourced from the English Channel, to help maintain the stability of the shoreline and prevent further erosion.
The Kings Esplanade Sea Defences project is anticipated to begin in late 2025, further solidifying the city’s commitment to protecting this important part of the coastline. The upgrade is expected to have a significant positive impact on the area, not only in terms of coastal defense but also in the overall appearance and accessibility of the beach. By improving the resilience of the coastline, the project will contribute to a safer and more enjoyable environment for both residents and visitors.
Seafront Development and Investment
While coastal protection efforts are essential for maintaining the physical integrity of Brighton & Hove’s coastline, the city’s commitment to sustainable development goes beyond defense measures alone. To ensure that the seafront remains a vibrant and attractive area for years to come, the council has also established the Seafront Development Board. This board’s role is to oversee the strategic development and regeneration of the seafront, creating a long-term vision that will balance economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social benefits.
The Seafront Development Board is tasked with overseeing infrastructure improvements that enhance the seafront’s appeal while ensuring that any development is in harmony with the natural environment. By promoting sustainable development, the council aims to strengthen the local economy while protecting the unique coastal environment that has made Brighton & Hove a prime tourist destination. This includes efforts to improve public spaces, ensure greater accessibility, and develop infrastructure that can withstand the challenges posed by climate change.
This initiative reflects the council’s broader goal of ensuring that the city remains a top destination for both residents and tourists. It is a long-term commitment to making Brighton & Hove’s coastline not only a place of beauty but also a hub of activity, fostering a sense of community and promoting tourism as a key economic driver.
Coastal Protection and Expansion Projects in the UK
Across the UK, several coastal communities are undertaking significant projects to enhance their beachfronts, with a focus on improving resilience to climate change. These projects aim to combat the growing threats of rising sea levels, increased storm frequency, and coastal erosion. With many of these areas being critical to local economies, especially through tourism, the projects are expected to protect valuable beachfronts while ensuring that future generations can enjoy these iconic coastlines. Below are some key coastal expansion and protection schemes that will be underway in 2025.
Southsea, Hampshire – A Major Coastal Defence Upgrade
Southsea, located in Hampshire, is set to benefit from the largest local authority-led coastal defence project in the UK. The Southsea Coastal Scheme will see a dramatic transformation of the beach, effectively doubling its size. Starting in October 2025, more than one million tonnes of shingle will be added to the beach, extending it between the Pyramid Centre and the Coffee Cup café. This extensive £180 million initiative will enhance flood resilience in the area, helping to protect more than 10,000 homes and 700 businesses along the coastline.
The project’s scale and complexity are a response to the rising threats of flooding and erosion in Southsea, a popular tourist destination. The added shingle will act as a buffer against rising sea levels and extreme weather events, reducing the risk of flooding in the area and safeguarding vital infrastructure. The Southsea Coastal Scheme also aims to enhance the public’s enjoyment of the beach by providing more space for activities like sunbathing, walking, and beach sports, making it an even more attractive destination for visitors. This ambitious scheme highlights Southsea’s commitment to ensuring long-term coastal protection while fostering growth in the tourism sector.
Paignton, Devon – Redevelopment with Coastal Protections
In Paignton, a major £14 million redevelopment of the seafront is underway, which includes not only aesthetic improvements but also a focus on bolstering coastal defences. This project is part of a broader flood defence initiative designed to strengthen the coastline against the increasing risks posed by climate change. Among the upgrades planned for the Paignton seafront are new seating terraces, relocated kiosks, and updated cafes, which will improve the overall visitor experience and enhance the appeal of the area as a tourist destination.
Sidmouth and East Beach, Devon – Protecting the Seafront
Sidmouth, a charming town in Devon, is also benefiting from a coastal defence project, with a £21 million scheme underway to protect the town and its iconic East Beach. This project is particularly focused on preventing flooding and coastal erosion along the stretch between Jacob’s Ladder and East Beach, which has historically been vulnerable to the threats posed by rising sea levels and extreme weather.
Blackpool Sands, Lancashire – Protecting Against Erosion
In Lancashire, Blackpool Sands is another beach undergoing a significant coastal protection project, with Blackpool Council proposing a £57 million initiative to address severe coastal erosion at the site. The scheme involves the construction of 17 rock headlands along the beach, which will be used to trap sand and prevent the loss of vital beach material to the sea.
Fylde Sand Dunes, Lancashire – A Coastal Environment Initiative
Further north in Lancashire, the Fylde Sand Dunes project is being funded by the Environment Agency and focuses on the conservation and protection of the coastal sand dunes along the Fylde coast.
A Nationwide Effort to Combat Coastal Erosion
These coastal protection projects across the UK reflect a growing recognition of the urgent need to protect valuable beachfronts from the growing impacts of climate change. With rising sea levels, more frequent storms, and increased flooding, these initiatives are being carried out to ensure the resilience of the UK’s coastline for years to come.
Conclusion
Brighton Beach is leading the way alongside Southsea, Paignton, Sidmouth, and Blackpool Sands in a groundbreaking coastal overhaul set to transform the UK coastline by 2025. These iconic tourist beaches are receiving significant investments aimed at boosting tourism and defending against the rising threats of climate change. With coastal erosion, rising sea levels, and increased storm frequency posing serious risks, these ambitious projects are designed to secure the future of these vital destinations. Brighton Beach, as a central hub in the region’s £5 billion tourism economy, is a key player in this initiative, ensuring that the seafront remains a thriving, sustainable asset for both residents and visitors. This collaborative effort not only protects the natural environment but also strengthens the local economy, paving the way for a more resilient future along the UK’s coastlines.
