A £100,000 scheme to improve pedestrian access and enhance the public realm along Ventnor Esplanade started today Monday 9th November.

The project, which found widespread local support at the public consultation on 14th September, involves creating a new stretch of footpath and installing speed ramps to reduce the speed of traffic travelling along the Esplanade.

The new footway will be constructed on the northern side of the Esplanade between the existing footway outside the properties ‘Sunrise’ and ‘Sunset’ and the bottom of Shore Hill, opposite the access road to the Eastern Esplanade Car Park.

While the work is carried out, sections of road will be closed to traffic and vehicular diversions put in place. Pedestrian access and access for deliveries to properties and businesses will remain throughout and car parks at either end of the works will remain open. To allow for adverse weather conditions delaying work, the road is scheduled to close between Monday 9 November and Friday 15 January 2010, although work is expected to be completed before Christmas.

Cllr Edward Giles, Isle of Wight Council Cabinet Member for Transport and the Environment said:

“We have worked with Ventnor Town Council and local people to create a scheme to meet the needs of  residents and businesses. Not only does it create a safer and more pedestrian-friendly area but also improves the public realm, making it even more attractive to residents and visitors to the town.”