As was predicted after Island Roads said they would not be putting diversion signs in place on Ventnor Cascade for the 27-week closure of the footpath, people have resorted to walking up and down the winding road.
From Monday this week pedestrians are no longer able to use the Ventnor Cascade footpath. Heras fencing has been set up, and as part of the six-month scheme to replace the railings, the mammoth task of installing scaffolding has begun.
No diversion signs
At a public meeting last month, representatives from Island Roads — who are responsible for the work — said they would not be putting signage in place to divert pedestrian access, leaving members of the public to find the alternative routes themselves.
Having stood at the top of the Cascade for less than two minutes this afternoon (Tuesday), News OnTheWight counted at least eight people walking either up on down the hill by using the road, which they shared with at least one vehicle.
Diversion route not accessible
Island Roads’ justification for not providing signage is, they said, because the alternative route to the east of the Winter Gardens (which brings you out by the back of Cheetah Marine) is only accessible for those who don’t have mobility problems.
Those with accessibility issues, or parents with prams and pushchairs, can use Belgrave Road and Esplanade Road to access the seafront — if they know about it. Locals should, but visitors are unlikely to.
Suggestions from the public
At the public meeting last month several suggestions were made to alleviate the problem, such as a shuttle bus going up and down – although it was not clear who would fund this.
Additionally it was suggested that part of the road be fenced off for pedestrians to use. However it was explained that lorries and HGVs need to access the seafront businesses, as well as the vital work taking place to rebuild the seawall (more on that here).
Pedestrians sharing the road with cars didn’t appear to be a problem today, but once you include HGVs into the equation, might it be a different matter?
