Dramatic drone footage reveals the precarious positioning of a coastal road on the edge of a cliff due to severe coastal erosion. The iconic Military Road on the Isle of Wight, a renowned 11-mile stretch of the A3055, sits just two meters away from the cliff edge in certain sections, offering breathtaking views of the English Channel and often recognized as one of the most stunning roads in the UK.
Originally built in 1860, Military Road connects the picturesque Freshwater Bay to Chale, housing the historic Blackgang Chine theme park. Recently, safety repairs were carried out on this route, frequented by cyclists, tourists, and locals alike. Aerial photographs captured by Angie Davies, who has been documenting the erosion, vividly depict the imminent threat of the road collapsing into the sea.
Expressing concern over the potential loss of Military Road, Angie emphasized the devastating impact it would have on tourism, labeling it as a vital route for the Isle of Wight. The ongoing erosion poses a significant risk, prompting suggestions to consider relocating parts of the road inland to safeguard it. The area, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is particularly susceptible to erosion due to water flow from the downs and the creation of chines in the clay cliffs.
Notably, the vicinity near Compton Bay and the village of Brook, close to Isle of Wight Pearl, has been heavily impacted, with emergency repairs conducted on beach steps earlier this year following a landslip. Military Road plays a crucial role in transporting visitors, including coachloads of tourists, to popular attractions like the Needles and Blackgang Chine.
The Isle of Wight council has been approached for comments on the situation.