If you have walked at the bottom of Union Street, Ryde in the last few weeks you might be wondering what happened to the paving stones that have been replaced by tarmac/asphalt – News OnTheWight has the answer.
Wightfibre had been working to install fibre on Union Street, but hadn’t quite finished before they were requested to stop work due to the start of the Ryde Interchange works.
Wightfibre: Had to stop for Ryde Interchange works
News OnTheWight got in touch with Wightfibre to find out whether they’re planning to return the brick paving and when.
A spokesperson from Wightfibre told News OnTheWight,
“This section of work was extremely congested with existing surfaces and hard dig which slowed the build, on Friday 7th October we had completed the dig and the permit was finishing that day, we had requested an extension over the weekend to replace the blocks.
“However this was refused by Island Roads and we were told we must temp up the site and demobilise as the Ryde Interchange works were starting on the Monday, we did point out we could complete the works over the weekend and not completing this would generate complaints, however this was still rejected.”
Wightfibre: Awaiting date to replace the blocks
The spokesperson went on to add,
“We have subsequently agreed with Island Roads that as soon as the Interchange works have been completed on the corner of Union Street and removed their Traffic Management, we will go back and replace the blocks, we are awaiting a date from Island Roads.
“We have requested a specific date from Island Roads, will wait and see what they come back with as they have the area booked out until March next year, that doesn’t necessarily mean we can’t complete the part in Union Street at some point when they have finished working in that area on Union Street, but at this stage we do not know when that could be.
“We are ready and will go in to reinstate as soon as Island Roads allows us to.”
IWC: Brick paving will be replaced
An Isle of Wight council spokesperson confirmed to News OnTheWight,
“Wightfibre are required to reinstate the brick paving. They didn’t complete their work in time, but had to leave site due to the programmed works at Ryde Interchange.
“Island Roads are reviewing the programme to determine an appropriate time to undertake a permanent reinstatement.”
Image: © Dave Wolton
