On 24th October 2014, on the instruction of the Isle of Wight council, Island Roads installed a large barrier at the western end of the Undercliff Drive landslip and filled it with water. At some point between then and now, someone had emptied the water out of the barrier, so it could be easily moved, presumably to allow residents’ cars to pass along the re-patched section of road.
This week the Isle of Wight Council instructed Island Roads to re-position the road closure barriers. They say the replacement barriers will prevent any unauthorised vehicular access along the temporary road and “ensure the safety of residents”.
Not covered by council’s insurance
The council advise they’ve received written confirmation from their insurers that “the road, in its current condition, is not covered under the terms of its insurance, leaving the council open to significant legal claims should an incident occur”.
Cllr Phil Jordan, Executive member for public protection, said,
“We understand the frustrations of those living in the affected area, however we have a responsibility for people’s safety and must follow the legal and insurance advice that we have been given. We would however reiterate that progress is ongoing with the plans for the new road, as approved by the Executive, and that this is being treated as a priority.”
Residents tell OnTheWight they’ve seen little action being taken by the council to help to improve the situation for them over the last few months.
Image: © Gary Smedmore
