By Isle of Wight Observer
Island Roads has confirmed that major improvement works to the Cement Mills viaduct, on the Cowes to Newport cycle track, will begin in mid-September, following the main holiday season.
The seven-week project will see nearly 100 decking panels replaced with new, highly durable alternatives made from recycled plastic. The viaduct will be completely closed during the works, with an official diversion in place via Horsebridge Hill and Stag Lane.
The viaduct, which dates back to the Victorian era, crosses Dodnor Creek, and once formed part of the Cowes to Sandown railway line. Today it is part of National Cycle Network Route 23 and the Red Squirrel Trail.
Local firm DDGA will carry out the works, having previously delivered projects including cliff-face netting above Gills Cliff Road in Ventnor.
The project was originally scheduled for earlier in the year, but was delayed until autumn following discussions with local cycling group Cyclewight, to avoid disruption during peak cycling season. The work cannot be carried out in winter due to material limitations in wet weather.
George Lovelock, Island Roads project manager and regular cycle commuter, said: “Users will know the surface needs replacing. This new deck is built to last and will greatly improve ride quality. While closure is necessary, we hope the long-term benefits will outweigh the short-term inconvenience.”
Further information is available at islandroads.com.