By Carole Dennett
The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has bowed to pressure over the controversial bollards blocking Clissold Road in Parkhurst – after the story appeared on the IW Observer’s front page last week.
At 7.20pm yesterday (Thursday), we received confirmation that the department now plans to replace them with new security barriers, restoring access for residents.
The MoJ had previously refused to answer our detailed questions about whether they were ignoring the rights of residents who have a legal right of way over the road written into their property deeds.
The concrete bollards, originally installed during roadworks on Horsebridge Hill, remained in place long after the works were completed — cutting off a key route for dozens of households. Residents were told they were to remain in place permanently.
The MoJ’s refusal to comment on whether the installation breached residents’ legal rights prompted widespread frustration. Local councillor Andrew Garratt and IW West MP Richard Quigley both raised concerns about the lack of consultation and the disproportionate impact on disabled residents.
In yesterday’s statement, a Prison Service spokesman said: “We put these bollards up temporarily to maintain prison security and public safety while roadworks were completed nearby, as the road had become a rat-run.
“We understand the frustration this has caused for local people, which is why we have secured funding for new security barriers that will end road closures for local residents whilst maintaining a secure outer perimeter for the prison.”
Cllr Garratt said: “This is very welcome news. I look forward to seeing the blocks removed as soon as possible. I’m sure that residents will be delighted with this development.
“One thing we now need to know is whether controlled access will be provided for all affected residents. I very much hope that will be the case.
“Residents, working with elected representatives and the local press to highlight issues and the impact they have on communities, can sometimes work!”
