UPDATED: A major operation to evacuate locals and retrieve possessions from homes at risk of collapse at Undercliff Drive continues today (Tuesday), with the arrival of larger British Army vehicles.
The homeowners of a further three properties were advised to leave yesterday evening by the Isle of Wight Council, Police and the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue service, following growing concerns about the stability of the land with further cracks appearing daily.
Access to around 10 properties is down to just half a metre with one property already splitting in half.
Today, large HX60 General Service Army lorries have arrived on site indicating further troops have been deployed to the area to help in the retrieval of personal possessions and to assist the local authorities, who are remaining tight-lipped as to the full details of the incident.
It is understood the British Red Cross are also on site to offer support.
UPDATE @ 14:20 – Following publication of our article earlier this afternoon, the Isle of Wight Council have confirmed that 25 soldiers, including Royal Engineer specialists, are currently deployed on the Island and are working with soldiers from 266 Port Sqn RLC based at Drill Hall Road in Newport.
They traveled to the Island last night.
The military are being used as extra security personnel and are continuing to assist in the removal of possessions.
Cllr Steve Studdings has said:
“With the ground still moving, it is too soon for us to make an assessment on the future of the road at this stage, this will be considered by technical experts when the ground has stabilised in the future.”
Initial indications suggest an abandonment of the area is possible.
UPDATE THURSDAY: The British Army were witnessed to be leaving the Isle of Wight via ferry yesterday evening, confirming that they have concluded their operation to assist residents in evacuating at Undercliff Drive. It is however unknown if Royal Engineers remain on-site.
Island Echo understands that the majority of properties have now been emptied of personal possessions and that an assessment much now be made about the short term future of the Undercliff and the ongoing situation.
Members of the local and regional media are still being excluded from entering the landslip area – even under escort – and limited information has been made available as to the current situation.
Read our full report regarding the ongoing situation here and view photographs of the Army’s arrival at Seaclose Park in Newport on Saturday here.
The Isle of Wight Council are advising members of the public stay away from Undercliff Drive with the site being described as extremely dangerous.
Image: Slip photo – Isle of Wight Council
