Portsmouth City Council has confirmed that the transformation of Castle Road is continuing, with improvements now extending further south to enhance one of Southsea’s most characterful streets.

The scheme, designed to create a safer, greener, and more attractive destination for residents, visitors, and local businesses, has been met with strong support and positive feedback. As a result, the project will now continue southwards, extending the new level paved surface and central pathway up to the junction with Southsea Terrace.

This follows a recent public consultation on the proposals. The scheme remains on schedule and is expected to be completed by mid-March.

Since it was first pedestrianised in 2020, independent shops and cafés in Castle Road have thrived. This project builds on this success by:

• Introducing a high-quality, level paved surface
• Creating a central pedestrian pathway for safer, easier movement
• Installing new planters and trees to add greenery and sustainable drainage
• Improving the visual appeal of the road to reflect its historic charm

So far, almost 90 metres of Castle Road has already been upgraded with stylish block paving. Four raised planters framed with conservation kerbs have been completed, and tree and shrub planting is now underway. The different coloured bricks currently visible on-site mark future areas for additional raised planting beds.

Getting to Castle Road is easier than ever thanks to the updated Stagecoach No. 18 bus route, and all shops remain open throughout the works with full pedestrian access for residents and customers.

This project is being delivered by Colas Limited on behalf of Portsmouth City Council. Castle Road forms an important part of the council’s District Local Town Centre Programme, which aims to support vibrant, welcoming spaces that help local businesses thrive.

(Picture: Portsmouth.gov.uk)