Yesterday there was speculation whether the Army had come to help with the landslip on Undercliff Drive. We asked the council, they claimed they “didn’t have details”. Today, this comes to light. Thoughts are with those involved – Ed.
A major operation is underway to help residents affected by land instability along Undercliff Drive between Niton and St Lawrence.
The Isle of Wight Council is co-ordinating an operation to help residents remove belongings from their homes after they were advised to leave for safety reasons.
The operation is being led by the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service with support from the military, the Isle of Wight Coastguard Service, Island Roads and local police officers.
Significant ground movement
Over recent days, significant ground movement has damaged the highway resulting in the loss of vehicular access to nine properties in an area known as ‘Woodlands’.
On Friday (14 February) one home was evacuated after it was found to be unsafe by building control officers and yesterday the Isle of Wight Council requested that remaining residents leave their homes due to concerns about their safety because of lack of access and uncertainty about utility supplies.
Military deployed
Today, a military team which was deployed to the Isle of Wight yesterday to assess the impact of recent storms, is helping residents to remove personal belongings from their properties.
They are working alongside the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, Isle of Wight Coastguards, staff from the Isle of Wight Council and Island Roads.
Councillor Ian Stephens, leader of the Isle of Wight Council, said:
“We are very grateful for the additional assistance that the military is providing in our operation to assist residents affected by this terrible situation.
“Organisations are working closely together to provide humanitarian assistance to residents at this time of need. It is great to see such willingness and co-ordination from everyone involved.
“The council has been liaising closely with residents since the situation worsened on Wednesday and we will continue to provide whatever support we can.
“I would like to thank everyone involved in this relief effort, it just demonstrates how people can pull together in difficult times – something the Island community is very good at.”
A formal road and footpath closure is in place between Mirables (west of site) and Old Park Road (east of site). Saturated ground and continued movement make conditions in the area extremely dangerous so members of the public should keep away from the area.
Gallery of photos
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