Rats feeding on litter, Japanese knotweed and reports that parts of an Isle of Wight vantage point are used as an “informal public lavatory” have sparked an outcry.
Residents’ concerns over the viewpoint’s condition
Concerns have been voiced over the state of Bouldnor Viewpoint, particularly after recent works took place and several issues still remain.
Shalfleet parish councillor Jonathan Hill has asked why contractors working on the King Charles III England Coastal Path project left without carrying out “long-overdue” restoration.
He said one local describes the situation as “beyond the pale”, with overgrown vegetation obscuring much of what gives the location its name.
The Isle of Wight Council said it is aware concerns have been raised over the area and a site inspection has recently been carried out to assess its condition.
Councillor asks for a clear plan and timetable
Councillor Hill said,
“Residents had every reason to expect that the coast path works would provide an opportunity to improve the viewpoint. Instead, the contractors have left, and nothing appears to have changed.
“This is not simply about restoring a view. For more than a year, residents have raised concerns about overgrowth, rats, Japanese knotweed and parts of the site being used as a public lavatory.
“If there is no view and the site is suffering from these longstanding problems, residents are entitled to ask when action will finally be taken.”
Safety questions over the new steps
Councillor Hill added that locals now want a clear plan and timetable for restoring and properly maintaining the area.
He has also voiced disquiet over the safety of newly built steps providing access between the viewpoint and the coastal path.
The councillor said residents have contacted him expressing concern about their steepness, the lack of a handrail and what appear to be exposed metal fixings.
He added that combined with loose gravel surfaces, these issues could create an increased risk of falls, especially in wet or icy conditions.
Isle of Wight Council’s response
In a statement, County Hall said,
“Firstly, the Isle of Wight Council values the feedback received, and we will continue to work with partners and the local community to ensure Bouldnor Viewpoint remains a safe and attractive place for people to enjoy the Island’s coastline.
“The recent works were undertaken as part of the King Charles III England Coast Path project. These were focused on improving the coastal access route between the car park and sea wall.
“The improvements included resurfacing the path and installing new access steps, creating a safer and more accessible route that meets National Trail and public rights of way standards.
“The newly constructed steps represent a significant improvement on the previous access route, which was narrower, steeper and lacked handrails.”
It said the current path and steps have been designed to be appropriate for the site’s natural coastal setting and a recent inspection found them to be in good condition with no evidence of storm-related damage despite severe recent weather.
Council says works were not meant to tackle wider site issues
The council said the works carried out were not intended to address wider site management issues within the viewpoint area itself but it recognises the importance of maintaining public spaces which residents and visitors can safely enjoy.
Like many coastal locations across the Island, Bouldnor Viewpoint is subject to ongoing challenges from vegetation growth, erosion and the impacts of the natural environment, the statement added.
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed
