New Landslide Plans To Be Considered For Vulnerable Isle of Wight Areas

New plans to assist Isle of Wight communities most vulnerable to erosion, flooding and landslides could be introduced.

The council’s Environment and Community Protection Committee (ECPC) is to decide on whether to approve the development of Landslide and Coastal Change Adaptation Plans (LCCAPs).

LCCAPs aim to help communities ‘prepare for and respond to coastal changes caused by climate change, such as rising sea levels and more frequent storms’, according to a committee report.

In December 2023, an estimated 2.5 million cubic metres of material was displaced after months of heavy rainfall in one of the Island’s ‘largest recorded landslides’ in ‘modern times’ near Ventnor’s Leeson Road.

It resulted in the closure of a key part of Leeson Road, the evacuation of roughly 20 properties, a local cafe left perilously close to the new cliff edge and the A3055 ‘now just circa 10 metres away, compared to 30 metres before the event’.

In March 2024, another landslide took place in the Undercliff area of St Lawrence, affecting properties and closing Old Park Road.

The committee report says:

“This paper set out the needs for LCCAPs for areas most at-risk from erosion, flooding, and landslides, including Bonchurch, St Lawrence, Ventnor, and West Wight.

“The paper seeks approval to apply for funding, collaborate with partners like the Environment Agency, and use national guidance to create flexible, long-term solutions. The plans will be community-led and based on recent evidence from landslides.

“Actions may include improving drainage and flood defences, relocating buildings, restoring natural habitats, and supporting residents through engagement and funding as well as liaising with colleagues ensuring resilience plans are in place for the highway network.

“These plans will reduce risks, protect public safety, and support the council’s goals for climate action, nature recovery, and sustainable development.”

ECPC will meet at County Hall at 5pm on Thursday.