Site investigations on Bridge to inform design of flood defence for housing and wider regeneration

Wednesday 24 June 2026

Short-term site investigations will take place on The Bridge in early July as an important step in making sure the proposed flood defence is designed in the right way, in the right place, and at the best possible value for islanders.

Checking ground conditions, drainage and what lies beneath the road surface before construction starts is vital to reduce the risk of issues emerging later, when they would be more expensive and disruptive to deal with. The defence is fundamental to support housing, investment and regeneration around The Bridge, while helping to protect existing homes and businesses from future flood risk.

The risk of flooding caused by water overtopping at The Bridge seafront is a key consideration for several sites allocated for housing in the area and for homes and businesses in the immediate area. Although this risk is small, it is real. The latest climate change analysis for Guernsey and the forecast rise in sea levels indicates that the impact could be significant and needs to be addressed.

Workers will be carrying out a ground penetrating radar survey of the area from Thursday 2^nd to Friday 3^rd July. Stop/go signs will be used to manage traffic when workers need to enter the road. Following this, from Monday 6^th to Friday 10^th July, bore holes and trial holes will need to be dug which will mean that some parking will be suspended and pavements will be closed for limited periods of time.

While there isn't expected to be a need for significant traffic management measures in place, there may be delays during peak times. Therefore, during these works, wherever possible, islanders are encouraged to use alternative routes or to consider walking, cycling or catching the bus to reduce traffic on the roads.

What the flood defence will look like and exactly where it should be located will be confirmed through the design work. However, much of the design will be informed by what is necessary.

Deputy Adrian Gabriel, President of the Committee for the Environment & Infrastructure, said:

"These investigations are about making sure the defence is located in the most appropriate area of the Bridge. Spending time understanding the ground conditions, drainage and underground layout now is essential to reduce the risk of unexpected problems later which would cause greater disruption. These site investigations are commonplace before larger projects take place, to better ensure good value for money.

"The flood defence is important for unlocking housing, investment and regeneration around the Bridge, as well as helping to protect existing homes and businesses. We know the works will cause some disruption, and we are grateful for the patience of residents, businesses and road users while this work takes place to enable the delivery of housing. This is a necessary step to make sure the project is properly informed and delivers best value for the island.

"We look forward to seeing these works completed so that this project can move on to the next stage, which is finalisation of the location and the detailed design of the defence."