We have a duty to repair and replace 2 seawalls which support Weymouth Peninsula. The walls are to the Northeast (Wall F) and Northwest (Wall G) of the existing car park.
Why we are doing this work
The current walls are showing signs of deterioration, and may soon fail without intervention. If we do not act now the walls will eventually fall, meaning the Peninsula may be at risk of collapse.
By carrying out the work now, the Peninsula will be structurally sound for a further 70 years.
How we will repair and replace the walls
We will be starting the work to repair and replace the walls from October. There will be some activity on site from 23 September for preliminary work. The Temporary Traffic Regulation Order (TTRO) will be in place from the 13 October which is the start date on site for the contractors.
Temporary traffic lights are likely to be in place while the work at the Pavilion beach end of the wall is carried out. This is because access to and from the Pavilion car park will be restricted to one lane.
Part of the Pavilion car park will be fenced off during the work, mainly to the north and north eastern end of the Peninsula. This is so machinery can be stored safely, and so construction workers can have space for offices, stores and a welfare unit.
The noisy pile driving work will start at the beginning of November and it is planned that this will be finished by the end of January. All work should be completed in July 2026.
The work involves installing a new sheet pile wall immediately in front of the existing walls. Large, specialist machinery will be used to install these new sheet piles. To minimise the impact of the noise from the machinery, a pile that can be vibrated into the ground, instead of hammered, will be used. However, some noise and vibration is unavoidable. We’re working closely with our Environmental Protection colleagues to ensure this project meets the required standards.
The new walls
The new walls will be higher in places than the current walls and so raised viewing points and a walkway will be constructed once the sheet piling work is completed. The walkway will connect raised platforms that will allow the unobstructed views of the sea and Jurassic Coast to be maintained.
Long term aims
The long-term aim for the Peninsula is to eventually build on it with a mix of attractive residential, commercial and community led spaces. This was a key part of our 2022 Levelling Up bid for funding to help regenerate Weymouth’s Waterside Economy for which we were awarded £19.5 million in 2023.
Plans for the development of the Peninsula have not been drawn up at this stage. However, no future development will be viable if we don’t carry out the essential wall repairs now.
Further information
We will work closely with the town council and the local community to ensure people are kept informed at every stage of this project. If you wish to contact us about anything related to this scheme, please email weymouthharbourwalls@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk.