East Cowes' York Avenue - buses divert, motorists told to avoid

The next phase of a project to rebuild and resurface part of York Avenue starts today, Island Roads has revealed.

Smaller roads around the town are busier than normal, as traffic diverts to avoid the main route.

There have previously been lights on York Avenue.

Island Roads says it is being undertaken when traffic is minimal due to the Covid-19 restrictions and reduced Red Funnel sailings.

It has applied for a three-week road closure, to allow for unforeseen delays, but is hoping the work will not last more than a fortnight.

Keith Gourlay, Island Roads construction manager, said as much of the project as possible has been completed under traffic lights.

However for the section across Victoria Avenue and a stretch 70 metres to the north of the junction it was necessary to close the road to complete the strengthening works

“Given the depth of the excavation required to strengthen the road and in order to keep the site safe for our staff, it is necessary to close the road for this next phase,” he said.

During the closure, a diversion via York Avenue, Adelaide Grove, Victoria Grove, Beatrice   Avenue and Saunders Way will be in place.

Keith said: “We apologise in advance for any inconvenience this work will cause. But as all those who use it will know, this is a section that is very much in need not just of resurfacing but of rebuilding as well.

“We hope that this extensive work now will ensure this busy gateway road remains in good condition for many years to come.”

Island Roads says the work is for sewer repair and carriageway reconstruction.

Emergency Road closure - York Avenue, East Cowes - The closure is necessary to allow the safe completion of the carriageway reconstruction works and to enable Southern Water to repair a brick sewer - heavy congestion, please avoid area if possible @iwight

— Island Roads (@IslandRoads) June 25, 2020

Southern Vecits says routes 4 and 5 are diverting from Whippingham Road via Saunders Way, Beatrice Ave, Victoria Grove & Adelaide Grove in both directions.

Routes 4 & 5 - York Ave, East Cowes closed. Buses to divert from Whippingham Rd - via Saunders Way, Beatrice Ave, Victoria Grove & Adelaide Grove to resume normal route.
Diversion operates in both directions.

— Southern Vectis (@SouthernVectis) June 25, 2020