'Significant rockfall' completely blocks Isle of Wight road
The same location was hit by a landslide in 2020
A road on the Isle of Wight has been completely blocked by a "significant rockfall", overnight.
Tonnes of rock fell onto Belgrave Road yesterday (7th March), also destroying a fence.
However, no injuries have been reported and no properties are thought to have been damaged, according to police.
Isle of Wight Council said it is monitoring the area, which is "known to suffer from geological instability."
In full: Isle of Wight Council response
The Isle of Wight Council and Island Roads will continue to monitor this significant rockfall at Belgrave Road and will take all appropriate action to protect the public, extending the current road closure (Belgrave Road and Rex Steps) if necessary.
There will then need to be a detailed assessment of the movement as this area is known to suffer from geological instability. Island Roads and the council will then work towards determining what action is required to ensure the safety of the area with the intention of removing the fallen rocks and re-opening the road at the earliest opportunity. As always, this will be done when we are sure no further imminent movement is likely at this location.
Island Roads will also be contacting the private owners of the rockface to discuss their role in this process.
Island Roads and the Isle of Wight Council has every sympathy with Ventnor residents who once again face inconvenience due to the town’s unique geological features.
We can assure them we will be working with the Island Roads to resolve this issue as soon as possible.