The strength of feeling about the situation on Undercliff Drive was made very clear yesterday (Wednesday) when over 100 residents made their way to the Ventnor Botanic Garden to share their views and concerns about the future of the road at an open consultation meeting organised by residents.
Spearheaded by Undercliff Drive resident, Gemma Read, the purpose of the meeting was the gather the views of the wider community affected by the road closure following a series of landslips earlier this year.
Wide range of comments
Many of the residents from the nine properties who were advised by the council to evacuate their homes in February were at the consultation.
Comments left by residents and local businesses from the wider community varied considerably. Many called for the road – referred to as ‘the lifeline of the South’ – to be re-opened to through traffic as soon as possible.
Others urged the council to buy the homes from landlocked residents, as suggested by local councillor Stewart Blackmore.
“Work together, united”
Gemma said,
“The drop-in session was arranged so all the surrounding communities and affected parties can connect, share opinions and gather information.
“It’s an opportunity for all parties to get together as a community to obtain consensus to save our Undercliff, tourism and homes, but moving forward positively.
“The geographical area has been notoriously unstable, however, it’s an iconic and strategic route and we must find a solution and help our council to make the best decision as we believe the council are on our side and we would like to work together – united.”
MP and councillors talked to residents
The ward councillor and deputy leader of the council, Steve Stubbings, spent time during the day talking to residents, as did Conservative Isle of Wight MP, Andrew Turner.
Niton and Whitwell councillor Dave Stewart also popped into the meeting near the end of the day to listen to residents’ concerns.
