There is still no clear timeline for clearing the rockfall that has kept Belgrave Road in Ventnor closed.
Nearly three weeks have passed since Isle of Wight council said it could not proceed without permission to access third-party land.
Ongoing disruption
The road closure continues to affect residents, businesses and visitors, with frustrations growing as the weeks go by. Especially as the road was closed for almost three years following the partial collapse of the retaining wall and road.
OnTheWight asked the council for an update, pressing for clarity on the next steps.
Council outlines legal route
A council spokesperson said,
“The Isle of Wight council has made every effort to contact the landowner using various methods of communication, including phone calls, emails and letters but has yet to receive a response back.”
They added that the council had taken legal advice and, under the Highways Act, could now serve notice on the property owner without needing to go through the courts.
Hopes for quicker progress
The spokesperson said,
“The notice would inform the landowner of the intention to remove the debris and make the necessary repairs.”
They continued,
“The council would then act through the court if the landowner has not made contact to recover any appropriate costs.
“Hopefully, this will now speed up the process of opening Belgrave Road.”
OnTheWight will continue to follow this story and update residents as the situation develops.