The leader of the Isle of Wight council has spoken out following the decision by the planning committee to reject an application for stabilisation works on the Military Road. The decision took into account the various economic, social, and environmental aspects linked to the proposed project.
Road remains open
For now, the Military Road will remain accessible to the public. Councillor Phil Jordan, Cabinet member for highways and infrastructure and newly-elected leader of the council, confirmed,
“The road remains open while we continue to work with local communities and landowners to assess alternative options.”
Landscape of national significance
Councillor Jordan emphasised the significance of the West Wight landscape.
He noted,
“The natural beauty of the West Wight landscape is acknowledged as of national importance through a multiplicity of designations, including being an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and part of the wider UNESCO Isle of Wight Biosphere Reserve.”
Protecting delicate ecosystems and scenic beauty
There were concerns that the proposed plans would negatively impact these revered sites.
Councillor Jordan explained,
“The plans considered by the planning committee were deemed to likely damage these internationally and nationally designated sites, not only harming delicate eco-systems and habitats, but the very essence of what makes this road so special — its scenic beauty.”
Continued efforts to preserve the route
However, the council hasn’t abandoned the idea of making improvements to the route.
Councillor Jordan assured,
“The council will continue to explore potential solutions to preserve and protect this important route, and to secure all the necessary consents in a highly protected and geologically sensitive landscape and that can be implemented as quickly as possible.”
This ongoing cooperation between the council, local communities, and landowners ensures that all potential avenues for improving and preserving the route will be explored thoroughly.
