Project Updates

DEFRA has launched a consultation on Reforming our approach to floods funding(External link), which outlines a new Floods Investment Framework set to take effect from April 2026. Based on current guidance, the Chesil Cove Curved Seawall will fall under this new framework, though the final funding rules are yet to be published. We’re currently assessing how these changes may affect the development and delivery of the scheme.

The OBC for Chesil Cove Curved Seawall is being taken to Dorset Council Cabinet in early March 2026. Only after this is approved can any further steps be undertaken in the process.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to the Chesil Cove Curved Seawall proposed work engagement process. The data has now been analysed and we present the findings in the summary below. All results are also now with the project team who will progress with the Outline Business Case for the project. The project team has also provided an update to indicate the next steps.

The Engagement Summary is now available here.

An update from the project team is available here.

The survey for this project is now closed. Dorset Coast Forum will now collate the responses to feedback to the project team. If you have any questions regarding this project please get in touch via the project officer, Elaine Snow.

Following our engagement events we have the following key updates:

• The survey is now open until 11/11/2024. This is the key place to have your say and feedback comments to the project team.
• Paper surveys can be collected and returned in person to the Portland Town Council offices during opening hours.
• The updated posters from Monday 21st October's engagement drop in are now on the webpage along with updated FAQ’s.
• We have been working through comments and questions as they come in. Responses have been either emailed directly or put on the updated FAQ's and questions posters.
• We have tweaked the name of the project webpage following feedback and hope this will give a clearer message on the work we are doing.
• The project team have applied to extend the OBC timeline based on the level of community engagement.