UPDATED: FEARS OF IMMINENT LANDSLIDE SEE CORDONS ERECTED IN SHANKLIN

Fears of an imminent landslide in Shanklin have led to Police cordoning off an area of the beach this lunchtime (Saturday). It was earlier today, at around 11:00, that local authorities were alerted to a large crack forming at the top of the cliff near to Rylstone Gardens, prompting concern for the stability of the cliff. Officers have now erected cordons on the cliff path at Rylstone and down on the Esplanade at Shanklin in the interests of public safety. Access to the beach and The Fisherman’s Cottage is currently restricted. Island Echo understands that a local resident – who walks through the area daily – noticed the developing situation early this morning. Returning around an hour-and-a-half later, the crack had opened up to around 8 inches – prompting the alarm to be raised. Although more than 50mm of rainfall has been recorded in the past couple of days, it’s thought that the record-breaking rain experienced in October and into November is now starting to affect cliffs around the Island. A major landslide just down the coast at Bonchurch occurred in early December. The Isle of Wight Council is on high alert for landslides at the moment as it takes around 10 to 12 weeks for the water to seep down through the earth. It’s thought the local authority has been made aware of the situation in Shanklin, with Island Roads also called in.

UPDATE @ 13:44 – The public are now being advised to avoid the area by the Isle of Wight Council. It is said that, as a precaution, Rylstone Gardens has been closed and The Fisherman’s Cottage temporarily evacuated. The business will open as usual this evening. The Council says that Shanklin Chine is now closed to the public, and the footpath from the road into the Chine is closed from Chine Avenue. Road closures and barriers are in place to secure the areas and the public are asked to respect closures for their own and others safety. At low tide, the public are advised not to walk near the bottom of the cliffs.