Safety warning as footpath crumbles

Pic: Chris Jarman

A local councillor has urged pedestrians to take extra care after a section of the causeway, between Freshwater and Yarmouth, suffered further structural failure.

The well‑used footpath, which runs along the former railway line, has deteriorated rapidly in recent days. Heavy rainfall combined with high spring tides has created what experts describe as a “perfect storm”, undermining the foundations and accelerating the collapse.

The site has been a longstanding concern, but attempts to secure the area have so far proved ineffective. Cllr Chris Jarman, who represents Totland & Colwell, said the issue has been reported multiple times, with the response limited to the installation of safety barriers.

“Sadly the collapse has expanded with recent high tides and rain, and some of the barriers have now been thrown in the water,” he said. “I’ve reported it again, but please take care.”

Residents and visitors are being advised to avoid the immediate area of the failure until a more permanent repair can be put in place.