The Isle of Wight council has announced significant progress in the construction of new sea defences on the Eastern Esplanade.
The king piling has successfully navigated past the compromised portion of the seawall. It is now safeguarding both the collapsed section, and the Southern Water main sewer.
Stability restored
This advancement suggests that no additional shifts or damages to the existing seawall are expected.
Naturally, this comes as a relief to homeowners and businesses situated nearby.
The council also notes that the project is progressing ahead of its expected timeline. Specifically, more than half of the king pile work is completed, with 78 of the proposed 152 king piles now in place.
Promenade’s restoration: A glimpse ahead
A question on many residents’ minds is the reopening of the promenade. Following the completion of the piling work slated for later this year, the council will shift its focus to restoring the promenade, ensuring its safety for public use.
As of now, the council has set their sights on spring 2024 as the tentative reopening date for the promenade.
Weather challenges ahead
However, the forthcoming winter months will play a crucial role in this timeline.
Although the council has anticipated and incorporated potential weather-related delays by employing an experienced marine contractor, the coastal location’s exposed nature means that repeated adverse weather conditions could pose challenges for the team on site.
News OnTheWight will share more updates when we receive them.
