Steps leading down to the beach at Alum Bay have been closed due to unsafe conditions, which comes just before the busy Easter period and the start of the 2023 tourism season.
The closure of the steps by the Isle of Wight Council means that the only public access to the remote tourist hotspot has now been severed. Repairs need to be undertaken to ensure the steps are safe to use.
The Needles Landmark Attraction is warning those intending to visit the West Wight beauty spot over the next few weeks that the only access to the beach – which includes access to the boat trips that operate from Alum Bay – is via the park’s chairlift. This does not run at all times and is a chargeable service.
Currently, there is no information from the Rights of Way team as to when the steps will be repaired and re-opened to the public.
lets be honest…a sign wont stop people lol
It always seems to be closed when the leisure park re opens, i think they just want you to spend your money on the expensive chairlift.
IOW council need to start looking at how the deteriorating conditions on and around our beaches impacts on tourists and residents. Not all problems of beach access and safety of steps can be just be put down to coastal erosion- neglect seems also to fit the bill.
The majority of beach access in West Wight is especially poor, dangerous and surroundings are shabby. Where is equality to access the shore for physically impaired people met? Fort Victoria beach is now very dangerous for people with a disability to use safely and has been for months. There is a lot for IOW council to focus on rather than just shutting access down just before the season starts to prevent any litigation to them.
Likewise in Shanklin.
Osborne Steps from Eastcliff Promenade down to the Esplanade have been closed since November, including part of the road near to Harrow Lodge due to ‘ground movement’
Absolutely no indications of any works being carried out or indeed any being planned.
True, you can still access the seafront via Hope Road or Chine Inn end, but, until at least the lift coming back into operation, it makes it difficult for both Visitors and Locals alike.
Still, we are only paying how much extra Council Tax this year for yet more cuts in services and facilities…?
Well get it fixed then BEFORE EASTER !
The council will never repair these steps ,it would take money from thier overgenerous pensions.
The Council outsourced these contracts to private companies like: Mitie & Amey YEARS AGO
That sounds unlikely, what on earth would a waste management service know about repairing footpaths?