By Lizzie Burt, Associate Director at Chinneck Shaw Estate Agents
As we embrace 2025, the focus on revitalised public spaces and sustainable urban planning is becoming a decisive factor for homebuyers across the UK. Coastal towns and cities, in particular, are leading the way, with innovative seafront regeneration projects transforming communities and boosting property markets. One such example is the stunning transformation of Southsea’s promenade, a case study in how future-proofed spaces can enhance both liveability and property desirability.
Nestled along the southern coast, Southsea has always been a charming seaside town. But while it may not share the limelight with its larger coastal counterparts like Brighton or Bournemouth, it is now making waves with its newly revitalised seafront. The unveiling of the redesigned Southsea promenade has turned this hidden gem into a model for how urban regeneration can breathe new life into coastal areas.
This redevelopment, a blend of thoughtful engineering and design, has created a space that’s functional, beautiful, and environmentally resilient. The Southsea Coastal Scheme is the UK’s largest local authority-led coastal defences project, worth more than £180M. Stretching 4.5km from Old Portsmouth to Eastney, the scheme will help reduce the risk of flooding to more than 10,000 homes and 700 businesses.
As a result, the promenade has now been dubbed a ‘theatre of the sea’ — a fitting tribute to its role as a centrepiece for the community. Enhancing both accessibility and openness, the redesign also celebrates Southsea’s rich history, with improved views of Southsea Castle and its surroundings.
For buyers in 2025, it’s no longer just about the house itself but the community and amenities that come with it. Future-proofing a property means looking beyond the bricks and mortar to consider how the surrounding area is adapting to challenges such as climate change and urban growth. In coastal towns like Southsea, this means paying attention to sea defences and public space improvements, which not only protect communities but also boost property values.
Take Southsea’s newly introduced ‘Windbreaks’, for example. This sheltered outdoor space that features works from local artists, is as practical as it is visually striking. Such investments in public areas create a ripple effect, attracting people to the area, encouraging tourism, and ultimately driving demand in the housing market.
The impact of these improvements on Southsea’s property market has been palpable. Homes near the seafront, like a charming three-bedroom townhouse on Burgoyne Road, are in higher demand than ever. Properties like this, which combine proximity to revitalised public spaces with modern amenities, are increasingly sought after. With a communal green, private garage, and an enviable location just steps from the promenade, it’s no surprise that such homes are being snapped up quickly.
For buyers across the UK, Southsea’s success story offers valuable lessons. Whether you’re eyeing a property in a bustling city or a quiet coastal retreat, consider these key factors when evaluating a potential new home:
As urban planning and regeneration continue to shape the property market, 2025 is the perfect year to future-proof your next home. Whether you’re looking for a sea view, a thriving community, or a home that’s built to last, staying informed about local developments is essential.
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