Former Isle of Wight Councillors Chris Quirk and Michael Beston say the reopening of Osborne Steps will help restore confidence in Shanklin after more than 3 years of disruption.
Osborne Steps and part of Eastcliff Promenade were closed in late 2022 following significant land movement just before Christmas, cutting off a key route between Shanklin seafront and the cliff top.
The following year, the Isle of Wight Council commissioned investigations into the slip, with surveys uncovering a void behind a section of the retaining wall. Island Echo understands funding was later allocated for repairs and approved by Full Council, but the proposed scheme was subsequently overruled by the then-Cabinet.
In the years since the closure, the site has been left fenced off and exposed to the elements, with barriers collapsing, sandbags splitting across the road, fencing rusting and weeds growing through the carriageway surface.
Last week, frustration over the prolonged closure boiled over when signs branding the Isle of Wight Council a ‘disgrace’ were attached to fencing surrounding the site. But within days the Isle of Wight Council announced big plans, as previously reported by Island Echo.
On the news of the reopening, Shanklin Town Councillors – and former Isle of Wight Councillors – Chris Quirk and Michael Beston, have said:
“We are delighted to welcome last week’s announcement from the Isle of Wight Council confirming that repair works to Osborne Steps in Shanklin will finally begin next week, with a target reopening date towards the end of June. This is extremely positive news for residents, local businesses, and the thousands of visitors who rely on this vital link between the town and the seafront.
Article continues below this advertisement “The closure of Osborne Steps – along with Appley Steps and part of Eastcliff Promenade – has had a significant impact on Shanklin since late 2022. During our time serving on the Isle of Wight Council Economy, Regeneration, Transport & Infrastructure Committee, we repeatedly pressed for action. We were given a personal assurance by the then Director of Regeneration, Colin Rowland, that the steps would be reopened following 2 independent structural and engineering surveys.
“For more than 3 years we have campaigned persistently for their reinstatement.
“The hospitality and tourism sectors are highly sensitive to infrastructure failures, and Shanklin has felt the consequences. Visitors expect safe, direct, and attractive routes between the town, the cliff path, and the seafront. When they arrive to find key access points fenced off for years with no visible progress, they simply choose other destinations. This has affected not only Shanklin’s visitor economy but also the wider Island – from accommodation providers to attractions, restaurants, and transport operators.
“This announcement is therefore a very welcome step forward. The planned works – including a new groundwater drainage system, reconstruction of the retaining wall, protective netting, and refurbishment of the steel staircase – will not only restore access but strengthen the area for the future. The additional measures proposed for Eastcliff Promenade are also an important part of improving long‑term safety and resilience. After years of uncertainty, we are pleased that the Council is now taking decisive action. Reopening Osborne Steps ahead of the summer season will make a real difference to local businesses and help restore confidence in Shanklin as a well‑maintained and accessible resort.
“We look forward to seeing the works progress and to continuing to support efforts to secure the future of both Osborne Steps for the benefit of our residents, visitors, and the Island’s tourism economy.”
The route is expected to reopen towards the end of June, subject to weather and site conditions.
What a load of rubbish!
The cliff path near the steps will never be safe again.
STOP MOANING AND PETITION FOR THE LIFT TO RUN
ALL YEAR ROUND FREE OF CHARGE
MUCH CHEAPER THAN WASTING MONEY ON STEPS/PATH
THAT WILL FALL AWAY IN A FEW YEARS TIME IF NOT SOONER.
So many clueless numpties.
I think you belong back on the funny farm mate. Idiot!
Mr Beston and Mr Quirk. Thank the lord that the steps will be opening. I do not in anyway want to give you any advice but i would now do the following..