A series of striking drone images capture the precarious position of a coastal road perched on the edge of a cliff, showcasing the severe impact of coastal erosion. The Military Road on the Isle of Wight, a renowned 11-mile section of the A3055 running along the island’s southwest, sits just two meters away from the cliff edge at certain points. Known for its stunning views of the English Channel, this road is often hailed as one of the most spectacular routes in the UK.

Originally built in 1860, the Military Road links the charming Freshwater Bay beach to Chale, home to Blackgang Chine, the UK’s oldest theme park. Despite being a popular route for cyclists, tourists, and locals, recent safety repairs were conducted earlier this month due to the road’s proximity to the eroding cliff edge. Aerial photographs taken by Angie Davies, a photographer documenting the erosion, vividly illustrate the road’s perilous position close to the sea.

Expressing concern over the potential loss of the road, Angie emphasized the devastating impact it would have on tourism, stating that the road’s disappearance would significantly affect the island’s visitor traffic. She suggested the possibility of relocating the road further inland to safeguard it from the encroaching erosion. Notably, the road traverses an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is particularly vulnerable to water runoff from the downs and the formation of chines in the clay cliffs.

One of the areas most affected by erosion is near Compton Bay and the village of Brook, adjacent to the Isle of Wight Pearl. Emergency repairs were recently undertaken on beach steps at Compton Bay after they shifted and buckled following a landslip. Military Road plays a crucial role in transporting holidaymakers by coach to attractions such as the Needles and Blackgang Chine.

The Isle of Wight council has been approached for a statement regarding the situation.