Work to install new safety railings at Rene Howe Walk on Ventnor seafront will begin next month.
The project by Island Roads will see the installation of 140-metres of railings that respect the Victorian character of the seafront and meet current safety standards.
The walkway will also be resurfaced as part of the project which is due to begin on September 4 and last approximately 27 weeks.
The Cascades will remain open to traffic at all times though for two periods during the work temporary traffic signals will be required as the work also involves significant excavation of the existing kerbing and footway.
In order for us to undertake the work as safely and as quickly as possible, it will be necessary to close the footway to pedestrians for the duration of the scheme. There will be signed diversionary routes that pedestrians will be able to use.
Project manager Nathaniel Saunders said: “Rene Howe Walk is within a conservation area and so we have liaised closely with the Isle of Wight Council’s Conservation Officer to ensure the new railings and bollards are in keeping to with the local character.
“The new railings will be vertical as opposed to the current horizontal style as vertical railings are more compliant with the required safety standards. They will also need to be set in new concrete foundations which means we will have to excavate much of the current footway and it is this element – plus the need to erect a lot of scaffolding – that means the project will take around 27 weeks.
“We have sought to undertake the work outside of the main summer season but using as many weeks as possible before the winter months when working is more likely to be affected by shorter daylight hours, lower temperatures etc. This is particularly so in this location which is an exposed coastal site.”
Businesses and residents, as well as local elected representatives, were informed of the work this week.
Here’s how the planned upgrade of the Cascades at Ventnor will look. Colour scheme and the curved handrails both match the original features. We’re seeking to respect heritage and meet modern safety standards. Footway will also be resurfaced. More: