Steephill Road works begin next week in Ventnor

Work will begin next week to upgrade Steephill Road and Park Avenue in Ventnor.

The stretch serves a number of businesses and Island Roads is keen to stress that traffic arrangements are in place minimise the impact of the works.

The scheme, which is scheduled to begin on October 2 and last for seven week days until October 10.

It will be split into two phases as a measure to reduce inconvenience.

In addition, a diversion will be put in place via Steephill Court Road and Castle Close (with three-way traffic lights at the junction Steephill Road) to allow all vehicles including coaches to access Ventnor Botanic Garden and Ventnor Cricket Club throughout the scheme.

The scheme has been scheduled outside the main tourism scheme but before the onset of winter when there is greater risk severe weather conditions could prolong the duration of the project.

Island Roads has visited businesses in the area to discuss the scheme and individual access needs while residents will also receive letters informing them of the works.

While the road will be closed during work hours (6.30am to 6pm) pedestrian access will be maintained.

Island Roads construction manager Keith Gourlay said: “While residents and businesses will know that the road is clearly in need of improvement this is one of the more difficult sites to manage as it has limited possibilities for diversions.

“We have however been able to make arrangements that will maintain access to Ventnor Botanic Garden and its car park which is also used by people visiting Steephill Cove below.

“We would like to thank the local businesses for their understanding and we will continue to keep them and the local community informed of progress throughout this scheme.”

John Curtis of Ventnor Botanic Garden, said: “We were grateful that Island Roads has phased the works and also taken steps to maintain our access throughout the scheme and we would like to remind residents and visitors that we are open for business throughout the work.”