The Graben Southern Water Works FAQs
The Graben Southern Water Works - frequently asked questions
Yes. Emergency services will still be able to access the closed section should they deem it necessary to do so.
For example, at present the junction of Southford Lane and the Newport/Niton Road has poor visibility, with cars having to go halfway across the carriageway to see if anything is coming. This route is subject to our regular inspections to ensure it remains safe and accessible. We will schedule an additional inspection and take whatever action is appropriate to ensure this remains the case.
There will be a one-way system in place between Godshill and Whitwell. This is the narrowest section of the diversion route and a similar one-way system was put in place last time there was extended period of work at The Graben
This has been considered but it is not felt temporary lights would improve traffic flows. While clearly not ideal, the agreed plan is – in all the circumstances - considered the best option in what is a difficult situation.
Yes. We have spoken to Southern Vectis and pushing the scheme back a week to begin on June 24 means they will have the capacity to run a shuttle service between Upper Ventnor and the closure site.
for example by providing a temporary car parking area somewhere on the Ventnor side (eg Ventnor Industrial Estate) and either a walking route or a walking bus system? We hope the shuttle bus will provide the required support for parents. We / Southern Water will be happy to consider any other suggestions.
The council would work with multi agency partners and Island Roads to ensure that access could be made available to and from Ventnor for vehicles providing critical services.
Yes, there will be some temporary parking restrictions within the diversion to optimise traffic flows. These will be advertised in advance.
We are working closely with Southern Water to help them to finish their work as quickly as possible. However, 24-hour working will not always be possible given factors such as there being periods when materials used in the repair will need to cure.
Has there been consideration that this period falls over the Island's busiest weekend of the year, the Isle of Wight Festival?
What was the reason for choosing these dates, when traffic in and out of Ventnor is going to be busy (lots of local residents go, but also lots of hotels in Ventnor host performers and festival ticket-holders)?
As discussed at the recent public meeting in Ventnor, there is no ‘right time’ to do the work. It was felt it was better for Southern Water to undertake the required work as soon as possible rather than risk the situation becoming worse meaning more lengthy emergency repair works may be required later in the year, possibly at the height of the tourism season.
However, following the discussions with Southern Water mentioned above, it has now been decided to begin the work on Monday 24 June 2424.
Island Roads, the Isle of Wight Council and Southern Water all appreciate the difficulties these current access issues in Ventnor are causing for residents and visitors. We also acknowledge that residents on the diversion route will also be affected by these essential works on the Graben.
Our number one priority is, and must be, public safety. At the same time, we can assure the community that we are all doing everything we can to resolve all these issues as quickly as possible.
Email contact for questions and comments: coastal.recovery@iow.gov.uk