In on-going support of maintenance works on sea defences around Langstone Mill Pond, Havant Borough Council is investing over £100,000 into critical works to be undertaken by Coastal Partners - experts in managing coastal flood and erosion risk. Starting in June, these works will address repairs along the Mill Pond wall section, as committed to in 2024 in a Statement of Common Ground with multiple partners.
Progress with proposed works to the eastern end – to be undertaken by Hampshire County Council and Chichester Harbour Conservancy – causes concerns for Havant Borough Council, who are eager to see both greater public engagement on the matter and clearer timescales for delivery.
Havant Borough Council is committed to working with all partners to achieve the best outcomes for this cherished borough asset, which is well-loved and well-used throughout the year. The council is also eager for all agencies involved to meet the terms of the Statement of Common Ground. Agreed in January 2024 following extensive discussion, Havant Borough Council, Hampshire County Council, Chichester Harbour Conservancy, Natural England and the Environment Agency committed to the following priorities for the next 25 years:
- Maintenance of the Mill Pond Wall
- Maintenance of the coastal path along its current route by construction of a bridging solution towards Wade Lane
Councillor Philip Munday - Leader of Havant Borough Council – stated “I’m delighted to see my council’s commitment to Langstone Mill Pond, with real action and considerable investment set to provide real results. I look forward to seeing the benefits of that work which begins next month. However, I have concerns regarding works previously agreed by Hampshire County Council and Chichester Harbour Conservancy. To date, there has been a lack of visibility and engagement with residents regarding their plans for this popular stretch of our coastline, which I hope is swiftly addressed. Furthermore, I would like to see their closer engagement with Havant Borough Council so that we best deliver the benefits we all agreed to through our Statement of Common Ground”.
For more detail on the situation – and work to date – visit the Coastal Partners website at: https://coastalpartners.org.uk/project/langstone-mill-pond-to-wade-lane-havant-166/