Southern Water has announced its intention to cover the cost of 2 thirds of the annual payments made to the Isle of Wight Council by owners of beach huts at Appley following the disruption caused by the ongoing sewer repair works.
A letter sent to the owners of the beach huts – which are situated just metres away from the works – has apologised for the disturbance experienced by the owners and the impact the works have had on them.
The letter says that the utility company proposes making a payment to each owner amounting the 2 thirds of their annual payment. It reads:
“Dear beach hut owners, I write in relation to the current works being undertaken by Southern Water to repair the sewer on the promenade at Ryde.
“Firstly I would like to apologise for the disturbance and disruption caused as a result of these works. We are doing all we can to complete the works as quickly as possible, and would like to thank you for your co-operation and understanding during this time.
“It is acknowledged that you make an annual payment to the Council for the right to locate your beach hut at Appley. In recognition of the impact of the works on your enjoyment of this right, we are proposing to make a payment to you amounting to 2/3rds of your annual payment. This will be made to you on confirmation of your annual payment having been received by the Council.
I would be grateful if you could complete the attached form to enable payment to be made.“I apologise again for the disturbance and disruption caused as a result of the works.”
Keith Herbert, the Operational Manager of Southern Water, told Island Echo:
“We acknowledge that our ongoing work at Appley Beach is impacting the community and we are sorry for this. While we are working as quickly as possible to make repairs and be away from the area, we are also working to support those who are being inconvenienced.”
