Contractors at Hilsea Lines have begun applying the pool’s distinctive blue coating after completing the white base layer. The walls will feature a smooth finish whilst the floor receives textured treatment for enhanced slip resistance.
Blue Coating Under Way
Within the protective tent structure, Beard contractors have commenced the blue coating application following the white base layer. The walls are set to receive a sleek finish, contrasting with the floor’s textured surface designed to prevent slipping. Strategic tape placement along tile edges is facilitating precise cutting work.
Most wall sections now display the base coat, with the team working to a strict timeline. Manufacturing specifications require the topcoat to be applied within four days of the base layer, otherwise the initial coating becomes ineffective. Should this deadline pass, the base coat would require removal and reapplication—a scenario the team is carefully avoiding. They’ve calculated which sections can be completed before the weekend to maintain workflow efficiency without generating additional tasks.
The deep section’s base coat appears somewhat uneven, though the contractors employ specialised measuring equipment to verify coating thickness against manufacturing standards. Rather than applying an unnecessary second base coat across the 67-metre pool, the team tests patchy-looking areas to determine whether additional material is genuinely required, preventing wasteful expenditure.
Privacy Enhancements
New fence posts positioned outside the entrance near the shower units will accommodate privacy screens. These screens will shield swimmers in towels from view when doors open, ensuring discretion for facility users transitioning between areas.
Electrical Infrastructure Progress
SSE personnel have been working along the pathway near the splash pool and Blue Lagoon. Their objective is establishing a direct power supply from the source at the roundabout to the electrical substation detailed in previous updates.
Junction Improvement Works
Enhancement works have commenced at a crucial junction aimed at improving citywide travel safety, reliability, and ease. The improvements encompass upgraded bus lanes, resurfaced roads, pavements and cycle paths, enhanced drainage systems, new illuminated signage, additional green spaces, and optimised traffic flow for all road users.
Travel disruption includes variable lane closures in both directions, a seven-week closure of the southbound right turn into Northern Parade with signed diversions, and temporary suspension of the Hilsea Crescent bus stop (Stop G)—passengers should use Oakwood Road or Hilsea Lido alternatives. Motorists are advised to plan journeys accordingly and allow extra travel time.
Coastal Scheme Weather Setback
Continuous rainfall and Storm Benjamin have transformed the North Portsea Coastal Scheme’s earthworks into what the team describes as “mudworks.” Despite the site crew being well-prepared with appropriate equipment and footwear, current conditions are unsuitable for progressing embankment construction.
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These weather challenges have caused programme delays. Additional weekend shifts notwithstanding, completion before Christmas is no longer achievable. The revised target is now mid-January 2026. The North Portsea Coastal Scheme team expresses gratitude for public patience and understanding whilst working through adverse weather conditions.
