Readers will remember that around this time last year (December 2012) the Totland landslide made its mark on the West Wight coastline.
The Totland landslide has resulted in the coastal path being closed between Totland and Colwell Bay ever since.
Campaigners unhappy with the length of time the path has been closed are hoping that an online petition will raise awareness of public opinion.
Helen tells OnTheWight,
“Our aim is to make the decision makers aware of public feeling and support for reinstatement or repair.
“We want to make sure that the council is aware of their electorates views before they make a decision.”
The petition which Islanders are encouraged to sign reads,
As a result of exceptional rainfall during Autumn last year, the sea wall between Totland and Colwell was lifted up and pushed forward some thirty feet by major ground movement over the Christmas period, 2012. The sea wall suffered catastrophic failure and the result is that a portion of one of the most beautiful coastal walks on the Isle of Wight has been destroyed and the remainder closed for safety reasons, thereby preventing public access along this spectacular sea facing revetment. The walk formed part of the IW Coastal Path and was enjoyed by residents and tourists alike, as it overlooks the south coast and Hurst Castle taking in a wonderful panorama, including views of The Needles.
The impact both locally and on tourism is both significant and damaging. Furthermore, without repair and reinforcement the area is susceptible to further damage because of the failure of the sea defence. Without this, the cliff, the homes above and the remainder of the sea wall are vulnerable. Local tourism and the sustainability of Totland is now threatened. This will have negative effect on employment, jobs and house prices.
We feel this vital sea defence and beautiful coastal walk MUST be reinstated by whatever means possible.
And calls upon Cllr Ian Stephens, as leader of the Isle of Wight council for,
Funds to be made available to reinstate the sea wall revetment between Totland and Colwell Bays, by whatever means possible.
If you’d like to sign the petition head over to Change.org.
Image: © HM Solent Coastguard
