A project to install new safety railings at Ventnor’s Rene Howe Walk is nearing completion, with the footway due to reopen to the public as scheduled on March 8.

The 27-week scheme has involved excavating Shore Hill for new reinforced concrete foundations into which new bespoke railings have been fixed. In total, 140-metres of new railings will line the walkway as it curves down alongside Ventnor’s much-loved Victorian Cascade. The entire route has also been resurfaced and bollards installed to protect both pedestrians and road users.

While the footway will reopen on 8 March, work will continue on the lower section of the footway adjacent to Shore Hill.  This is due to recent wet weather delaying the pouring of concrete, leading to the postponement of the manufacture and installation of the bespoke railings along this section.

However, this work is set to be completed in time for the Easter weekend. Temporary traffic lights will be in place at the bottom of Shore Road to enable a safe walkway for pedestrians.

Project Manager Nathaniel Saunders said: “We would like to thank residents and businesses for their patience and support during these works – which have not been without challenge given the exposed site and extreme weather conditions experienced this winter.

“We hope residents and visitors will enjoy making use of the improved footway which is a key route down to the town’s seafront.”

The work has been undertaken outside of the main summer season, with the support of a number of local contractors.