After a phone call with Southern Water we have some more information about the closure of the track at Sandown. There is now an off road diversion via a bridleway and footpath to the south of the track. From the 17th May the track itself will close for the works to begin. This diversion is not a cycle track and will not therefore be suitable for everyone but does provide a countryside route for cyclists, horse riders and pedestrians, which is a better alternative than the road. One section of the path is quite narrow so particular care will need to be taken, especially when horses are using it.
Southern Water and the Isle of Wight Council’s Rights of Way team have worked hard to make this happen. The Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust has been enlightened in allowing all users access along a footpath crossing their reserve for the duration of the eel screening works.
