The road between Ventnor Esplanade and the top of the town has been shut since October 2023 after heavy rain caused a privately owned wall to collapse, burying the artery with rubble. “If that was to close, you’d effectively cut off about 200 odd people from accessing their properties,” he added. The councillor also expressed frustration about a “lack of communication” which led to action groups being started, freedom of information requests being sent to the council and “endless emails” between people. “The whole time I’ve said if this was Newport High Street, it would not be allowed to close over a legal dispute,” he said. The LDRS has asked the Isle of Wight Council further questions relating to the closure and re-opening of Bath Road.