Works to reopen Ventnor’s Belgrave Road, which was has been closed for more than 7 months following a rockfall, are progressing well ahead of a proposed November reopening.
As previously reported by Island Echo, The road has been closed since March following a major landslip that sent tonnes of debris crashing down from the adjacent rockface, damaging the highway and structures beneath.
Safety plans were drawn up by the Isle of Wight Council and Island Roads in the weeks that followed, but progress was held up due to legal complications.
The collapsed section of rockface was confirmed to be privately owned. Following discussions with the senior contract lawyer from the highways team, the council prepared to take legal action after attempts to contact the landowner fell on deaf ears, but an agreement was eventually reached.
Clearance work began earlier this month with it hoped the road can reopen to pedestrians by early November. Full vehicle access will follow when the site is deemed safe.
The remaining works will see side railings replaced and a high-tension steel mesh – similar to that used on the nearby Gills Cliff Road – will be installed. Works will also be carried out to the steps between Belgrave and Esplanade Road ahead of reopening.
Local contractors Stoneham Construction, Corefix and MG Solutions – all part of the original rebuild team – are involved in the project.
They made a mountain out of a mole hill
Ventnor rocks