The Environment Agency will start essential works in late January 2026 to refurbish the mitigation pipe at Widewater Lagoon near Lancing, West Sussex. The announcement, published on 16 January 2026, sets a completion window to the end of March and confirms the site’s local designation for wildlife. Funding will come from the existing beach management budget for the Shoreham–Lancing frontage. ([gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/government/news/vital-lifeline-for-widewater-lagoon-wildlife-to-be-restored))
Routine inspections identified that the seaward section of the pipe and its timber support frame require replacement. The pipe enables controlled seawater inflows on high tides to sustain the lagoon’s brackish conditions and water levels that support local biodiversity. Temporary restrictions will apply to the immediate beach area and some weekend working may be necessary to align with tide windows. ([gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/government/news/vital-lifeline-for-widewater-lagoon-wildlife-to-be-restored))
The Environment Agency says it is coordinating delivery with Tom Rutland MP, the World of Widewater volunteer group, Lancing Parish Council and Adur & Worthing Council. Local authority information records that the lagoon is owned and managed by Lancing Parish Council. ([gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/government/news/vital-lifeline-for-widewater-lagoon-wildlife-to-be-restored))
Under the Flood and Water Management Act 2010 the Environment Agency provides the strategic overview for flood and coastal erosion risk management in England. Adur & Worthing Councils note that the Agency manages the Lancing and Shoreham beach frontage and that major coastal schemes typically combine national Grant‑in‑Aid with local contributions. In parallel with capital projects, the Agency has recently recycled shingle on this frontage after winter storms, indicating ongoing maintenance in line with the stated funding route for the lagoon works. ([gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-flood-and-coastal-erosion-risk-management-strategy-for-england--2/national-flood-and-coastal-erosion-risk-management-strategy-for-england-executive-summary?utm_source=openai))
Local Wildlife Sites are non‑statutory designations but recognised within England’s planning framework. The National Planning Policy Framework expects plan‑makers to identify and safeguard wildlife‑rich habitats, including locally designated sites, and to secure restoration and measurable net gains for biodiversity. Defra’s national indicators refer to 2006 guidance that underpins how Local Sites are identified and managed. ([gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-planning-policy-framework/15-conserving-and-enhancing-the-natural-environment?utm_source=openai))
For residents and visitors, the practical implications are short, localised restrictions on the beach path and foreshore around the work area. Queries can be directed to the Environment Agency on 03708 506506 or by email at SLTSDN.APadur.arun@environment‑agency.gov.uk. Weekend activity may be required to meet tide and weather conditions. ([gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/government/news/vital-lifeline-for-widewater-lagoon-wildlife-to-be-restored))
Maintaining the lagoon’s hydrology supports resident and migratory bird populations and other brackish‑water species. Public authorities, including the Environment Agency and councils, have a duty to provide and protect wild bird habitats when exercising their functions, which frames site management decisions and the scheduling of works. ([gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/providing-and-protecting-habitat-for-wild-birds?utm_source=openai))
This programme sits alongside wider defence activity in the area. The Shoreham Adur Tidal Walls scheme delivered significant river and tidal works, while a partnership led by Brighton & Hove with Adur & Worthing Councils, Shoreham Port and the Environment Agency is advancing coastal repairs from Brighton Marina to the River Adur. Together these initiatives reflect a continued focus on maintaining coastal defences on this frontage. ([gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/shoreham-adur-tidal-walls-scheme?utm_source=openai))
Next steps for practitioners and site users are straightforward: plan surveys and volunteer activity away from the late‑January to March construction window and expect short‑notice adjustments linked to tides. The Agency says it will work with local partners to minimise disruption and keep the public informed as the works progress. ([gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/government/news/vital-lifeline-for-widewater-lagoon-wildlife-to-be-restored))