Proposed Cowes breakwater moves closer

A number of delays had been incurred due to the requirement for investment assistance and government structural and policy changes but the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) has now agreed to provide funding to Cowes Harbour Commission for final ground investigation works required prior to the tender being released to construction companies.

Meanwhile, the HCA recently deferred the decision on funding the breakwater pending further supporting information. Importantly however, they gave their commitment to finding a solution to the funding of the breakwater. Cowes Harbour Commission is currently in discussion with the HCA and the Isle of Wight Council on the project.

The breakwater is part of a three-phase project that also includes a short extension to the existing Shrape Breakwater, and dredging of a new Eastern Channel for small craft. The estimated total cost for all three elements is budgeted at £9m. The breakwater will improve the flood defences for Cowes. Another important consideration is that the proposed new 400 berth East Cowes Marina is seen as potentially unviable without the breakwater. The availability of Trinity Landing for tenders from visiting cruise ships bringing passengers to visit Cowes would also be improved. On occasions ships have had to abort their visit due to adverse sea condition on Trinity Landing.