Portsmouth and Southsea are officially set for a major uplift this autumn and into the new year, bringing in developments that promise to enhance both the attractiveness and quality of life of the area. Local authorities and community stakeholders have confirmed plans and progress on several key projects — ranging from coast protection and beach expansion to arts, leisure, and business events — that together herald a bright future for residents and visitors alike.
Coastal Expansion and Protection: Southsea Beach to Be Doubled
One of the largest and most anticipated announcements is the upcoming expansion of Southsea Beach. The Southsea Coastal Scheme will see the stretch of coastline between the Pyramid Centre and the Coffee Cup Café undergo a significant transformation beginning in October 2025, where more than one million tonnes of shingle will be added to double the size of this seafront beach area.
This project is more than cosmetic: it’s a strategic move to strengthen sea defences, protect against erosion and flooding, and to ensure that the shoreline remains resilient in the face of climate-related challenges. The same scheme has already delivered a new seawall at Long Curtain Moat, refurbished bridges, elevated promenades and other improvements. Completion for the current phase is expected by March 2026.
Hilsea Lido Revival: Reopening and New Facilities
Another exciting development confirmed is the near completion of renovation work on Hilsea Lido, a cherished open-air swimming facility in north Portsmouth. Once one of the deepest outdoor pools in the UK, it has been closed since 2022, undergoing major refurbishment funded via the Government’s Levelling Up programme.
The upgrades include:
A modern filtration system that ensures clean, safer water for swimmers.
Refurbished changing rooms, toilets, shower units, and improved accessibility (ramps, Changing Places toilets) so it can serve people with mobility issues.
Additional amenities, including pop-up food and drink offerings, saunas, relaxation areas, and community-oriented wellness events.
Hilsea Lido is expected to reopen in autumn 2025, coinciding with its 90th anniversary, reinstating its status not just as a swimming pool, but as a community hub.
Economic and Cultural Boost: Southsea Food Festival and Events Calendar
Portsmouth’s economy is also getting a boost. Just a few weeks ago, the Southsea Food Festival 2025 generated £1.52 million for the local economy. That comes from over 63,400 visitors over two days.
Important highlights:
Almost half of those surveyed came specifically for the festival.
A significant number of businesses involved were local, and many visitors (≈38%) said they plan to return to Southsea for shopping, dining or leisure business after attending.
Food traders and attendees gave high ratings: over 90% rated the festival experience as “good” or “excellent.”
Plans are in motion for the 2026 edition of the festival, expected to build on this success.
Other cultural events are also confirmed to continue or grow, including the Victorious Festival, which annually draws thousands and contributes significantly to tourism and local culture.
Community and Transport Improvement
To make all of these upgrades work for everyone, authorities are also investing in infrastructure and community services:
The free bus travel initiative on weekends in September, in collaboration with First Bus and Stagecoach, aims to improve accessibility for more people to enjoy events and amenities.
On-street electric vehicle charging points are being rolled out across Portsmouth, supporting sustainable transport and helping reduce carbon emissions.
These improvements underline a holistic approach: not only are new attractions and defence schemes being built, but the supportive infrastructure is being developed to ensure they are accessible, environmentally sensitive, and community-oriented.
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