Military Road statement

The Isle of Wight Council has issued the following statement on the Military Road:

Councillor Phil Jordan, Cabinet member for highways and infrastructure, said: “The planning committee’s decision to refuse the planning application for stabilisation works to the Military Road considered the economic, social and environmental benefits and harm of the proposal.

“The natural beauty of the West Wight landscape is acknowledged as of national importance through a multiplicity of designations, including being an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and part of the wider UNESCO Isle of Wight Biosphere Reserve.

“The plans considered by the planning committee were deemed to likely damage these internationally and nationally designated sites, not only harming delicate eco-systems and habitats, but the very essence of what makes this road so special — its scenic beauty.

"The council will continue to explore potential solutions to preserve and protect this important route, and to secure all the necessary consents in a highly protected and geologically sensitive landscape and that can be implemented as quickly as possible.

“The road remains open while we continue to work with local communities and landowners to assess alternative options.”