Ventnor storm collapse promenade finally reopens, 18 months later
Extensive work has been undertaken to strengthen sea defences
A section of promenade on the Isle of Wight which partially collapsed into the sea 18 months ago has finally re-opened today (May 24th).
35 metres of the Eastern Esplanade were brought down during violent storms in November 2022.
Since then, the area has remained cordoned off between the town and Bonchurch - but safety barriers have finally been removed, allowing walkers and cyclists to use the section once again.
Isle of Wight Council has spent the last year carrying out repairs and shoring up sea defences to protect homes and businesses for years to come.
The work has been carried out thanks to a £4.8 million Government investment.
Natasha Dix, Isle of Wight Council's strategic director for environment and planning, said:
"As a local resident, raised in Ventnor, I know just how important this coastal route is to the local community and particularly to businesses in the area.
"I visited the site shortly after we were forced to close it for public safety and was shocked at the extent of the damage. There was extensive voiding under the revetment with large, heavy concrete slabs seeming floating in mid-air due to undermining by the high tides and ferocious storm surges.
"Our early drone footage revealed a horror show of rusting piles and crumbling concreate requiring us to construct a whole new sea wall. It was a huge job made all the more challenging by the exposed nature of the site and the relentless storms which battered the Island.
"Once again, I would like to thank the local community not only for their patience and understanding during these important works, but also their support."
The works, which began in May last year, involved piling more than 150 'king posts' into the foreshore, which were then backfilled and capped with concrete to encapsulate the rusting sheet piles.
They took place during further periods of stormy weather, with 13 named storms taking place during the period.
Allen Best, of Besty and Spinkys Café Bar on Eastern Esplanade, said:
"The reopening of the revetment is absolutely crucial to our business.
"Being the only flat, dry walk in Ventnor, it is a vital attraction to visitors and locals alike. We recently won The Island’s Best Café award and part of our charm is our location near some of the best walking routes on the Island.
"Popping into our café after a jaunt is a draw for so many of our customers and I can’t wait to see more of them soon!"
Councillor Steph Toogood, deputy mayor of Ventnor, said:
"Ventnor Town Council is delighted that the valuable coastal link (revetment) between Ventnor and Bonchurch is now open.
"The town appreciate the planning and teamwork that will enable tourists and locals, young and old especially with their canine friends to enjoy this flat coastal walk.
"The town council is grateful to have this popular route open for the busy tourist season."