The Environment Agency reported on 13 October 2026 that it had completed replacement of the Avon Water tidal outfall at Keyhaven Harbour in Hampshire, better protecting around 40 properties from flooding ahead of winter. The outfall forms a barrier between the Solent and Avon Water and was described as significantly corroded; the agency said the new structure would prevent river water backing up during high tides and flooding properties upstream.

The work relied heavily on tides, with specialist divers carrying out underwater inspections of the largely submerged structure. The agency said the new outfall uses more durable materials than the original, is intended to withstand the coastal environment, reduce future maintenance and extend the structure's working life. Project manager Artur Podsiadly said the upgrades were completed ahead of winter, when tidal locking can contribute to flooding at Keyhaven, while noting that not all flooding can be prevented.

The announcement coincided with Flood Action Week, which began on 12 October 2026 and urges people to check their flood risk, draft a flood plan and sign up for flood warnings. The agency also said a new Flood and Drought Resilience Taskforce had been launched by the government.