A section of promenade between Bonchurch and Wheelers Bay will be closed during weekdays for the next 2 weeks as investigations into the Ventnor Coastal Defence Scheme continue.
The temporary closure, which begins today Monday, will remain in place until Friday (16th October), with access restricted between 08:00 and 18:00 on weekdays.
The promenade will remain open during evenings, overnight and throughout weekends, with advance warning signs already installed and a signed pedestrian diversion route in place.
The closure is required to allow desilting works to take place, involving the clearing of drainage systems and pipes beneath the promenade.
It comes as ground investigations along Ventnor seafront continue to make good progress, helping engineers build a better understanding of ground conditions ahead of the development of the coastal defence scheme.
Small fenced-off working areas have been established at various locations along the seafront, where borehole rigs are being used to investigate conditions beneath the surface.
Those passing the working areas are being asked to take extra care and keep dogs close by, or on leads where appropriate, to ensure the safety of both the public and workers.
Meanwhile, more than 50 residents recently attended a meeting organised by the Bonchurch Coast Group, where representatives from the Environment Agency and Isle of Wight Council provided an update on the scheme.
The meeting focused on progress so far, ongoing ground investigations and the latest plans for Bonchurch East, with residents given the opportunity to raise questions and provide feedback.
Further opportunities for public engagement are planned, including updates relating to Steephill Cove, Ventnor town and the promenade.
It has also been confirmed that newly installed railings along Bonchurch promenade are temporary and have been put in place for health and safety reasons while investigations are carried out.
The railings will be removed and the area reinstated once the investigations have been completed.
Anyone wanting to learn more about the coastal defence scheme can visit the public information office on Ventnor promenade, next to the skate park, which is open every Tuesday and Thursday between 10:00 and 14:00.
