In the past, coastal slope instability and slow ground movements have resulted in repeated damage to roads, pavements and services as well as the loss of over 50 homes, several hotels and other businesses. The annual cost of landslide damage and management is estimated to exceed £2m. In the future, an increase in the occurrence of ground movement and landslide damage can be expected as a result of potential adverse effects of climate change and rising sea levels.

Halcrow has worked with the Isle of Wight Council to complete a quantitative risk assessment (QRA) for central Ventnor. The study has been supported by ground investigations comprising a number of deep boreholes positioned along a line through the town. This has provided much needed geological and hydrogeological data to better understand the geological structure and groundwater regime. The QRA has for the first time evaluated the causes, likelihood and future consequences of coastal landsliding under different management scenarios and demonstrated the potential benefits of major slope stabilisation measures.

MJInformation No: 21927