Specialist survey machinery has been drafted in to assist Island Roads and the local authority investigate the collapse of Belgrave Road in Ventnor.
It was on 19th January last year that residents were evacuated from their homes when a section of the carriageway started to collapse as a retaining wall gave way. The problem got worse and by February a large section had fallen, with some temporary measures put in place to protect the public.
Visual site inspections have been taking place twice a week for the past year with no further significant movement, cracking or deterioration noted in recent weeks. The road has remained closed throughout, although foot access has been maintained.
Now, for the next 3 weeks, Belgrave Road is closed to pedestrians as engineers conduct investigative works to help find the best way forward in restoring full access. The findings will help the implementation of a scheme to repair the wall, which is expected to be completed by October this year – over 18 months after the collapse.
Gabion walling would be the answer. Large low wide cages at the base tapering off as it rises These allow free draining of water, allow for limited movement without cracking or falling, and can be moved if needed.
Use no co2 as concrete does, and wildlife lizards love them.
Pile driving into the subsoil of poles driven through such gabion will add stability if required
That is to suppose that the ground at the base is firm enough to support gabions, each weighing many Tonnes. And I wouldn’t want to be around if they start piling…
Why has it taken this long to get specialist equipment in?
CV. one imagines. Seems to be the reason for much now.
Agree Wen, gabion cages can be made to fit the contours and will support the soil allow drainage, never need painting or rendering, and kind to the environment, and creatures, and easy on the eye and wallet.
So NO chance our c ou n c il will ever use such!