Major improvements to flood defences at Toll Road in Lymington have been completed by the Environment Agency. The two-year project involved replacing tidal outfall flaps and refurbishing the flood gate, ahead of the winter flood season.
The original steel tidal flaps, installed approximately 18 years ago, had reached the end of their design life and were corroded. New flaps, made from high-density polyethylene and marine-grade stainless steel, were installed in September 2026. This new material is expected to offer a more durable solution with reduced maintenance needs and improved reliability.
As part of the project, the flood gate at Toll Road was repainted, and worn seals were replaced. Pedestrian access when the gate is closed has also been improved, and a new, quieter road surface installed.
During the works, a regulating valve in the marshes was found to have leaking floats. This valve, important for winter flood risk management, has been temporarily closed as a precaution. Residents may notice lower water levels in the marshes until replacement floats are fitted and normal operation resumes. The regulating valve is planned to be repaired by the end of the year.
Artur Podsiadly, Environment Agency project manager, stated that the main project was delivered as planned before the winter months, providing a more robust solution for the challenging environment.