An important link between Ventnor Esplanade and the top of the town, the road has been shut since October 2023 after heavy rainfall resulted in a privately owned wall collapsing, burying the road beneath rubble. A spokesperson for the local authority said: “This important development allows the council to progress plans to repair the wall and reopen the road. “The procurement process to appoint contractors is now underway, with works set to begin as soon as possible to restore safe access for the community.” Esplanade businesses have said the closure has made Ventnor harder to reach and navigate, discouraging visitors and damaging trade. Tony Groves, owner of Lady Scarlett’s Tea Room, previously reported a 20 to 30 per cent drop in business since the road shut, while Lisa Boynton, who co-runs the Esplanade Beach Shop, earlier this year said around 25 per cent of trade had been lost.