A pedestrian was just seconds away from being covered by a mass of falling masonry on Monday afternoon in Shanklin Old Village.
Much to the astonishment and surprise of local businesses, masonry and ironworks fell from above a shop front in the Old Village, covering the pavement and part of the road.
People working nearby were quick to attend, with a local tradesman almost immediately clearing the debris from the road to aid passing traffic, whilst others informed the authorities.
The road was partially closed by Police, and is now under two-way temporary traffic lights.
At just past 1pm on Tuesday, a spokesperson for Isle of Wight Council and Island Roads told OnTheWight,
“A Building Inspector attended the property on High Street, Shanklin yesterday (Monday) and, following an initial assessment, identified a sufficient risk of further masonry falling to warrant the partial closure of both the pavement and the road, which is currently under two-way temporary traffic control, as a precautionary measure.”
Partial road closure will remain in place for the immediate future
They went on to add,
“Following a secondary inspection, there was no further visual evidence of further debris falling overnight although there are signs of movement in the lintel of the next-door property. As a result, the fenced-off area has been extended. Because of this the partial road closure and traffic lights will need to remain in place for the immediate future.
“Having spoken with the property owner they are aware of their responsibilities and are in contact with their insurers to ensure the building is made as safe as possible, as quickly as possible. They have also committed to keeping us up-to-date on how this progresses and Building Control will monitor and liaise with Island Roads over the need for the partial road closure.”
Article edit
2pm 25th Feb 2026 – Final quote updated with new information
