By Isle of Wight Observer
Work to clear tonnes of rock from Belgrave Road, in Ventnor, has begun, but Island Roads and the IW Council have warned that full reopening is unlikely before autumn.
Given the weight and size of the fallen rocks, as well as the steep and confined nature of the site, engineers are still working on the safest and most effective way to carry out the clearance.
Options under consideration include the use of a containment structure to prevent further debris from falling and causing damage, and even ‘chemical demolition’ – a method successfully used during the 2020 reconstruction of Belgrave Road after a previous collapse.
The council has said that further specialist input is needed and some of the work will go out to tender, meaning an exact timescale cannot yet be confirmed.
Island Roads said it had acted swiftly on receiving the instruction to begin the project, and is working with the council to reopen the route as soon as possible. Pedestrian access may be allowed sooner, if safe.
Additional signage will be installed in the town over the summer to help visitors during the Ventnor Fringe festival and beyond.
Regular updates will be provided to keep the community informed as work progresses.
