Isle of Wight landslip leads to man's dispute with Southern Water

George Gardiner lives at the former Luccombe Tea Gardens where a major landslip has torn apart his grounds, and caused the closure of the public footpath that runs through it.

He says he has had water trickling through his land, into the back of his garage, for two years, and has tried to raise the alarm throughout that time.

He feels ignored and said he has had no help, especially from Southern Water. He believes the water comes from a Southern Water pipe.

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The Isle of Wight County Press has been in contact with Southern Water about the matter, which the company described as "complex".

A spokesperson said: "We are aware of Mr Gardiner’s case and we received a claim last year in relation to a leak on a communication pipe which has allegedly caused subsidence to the property.

"This matter is complex and has been referred to our insurers who are currently investigating liability."

The landslip pictured today (Thursday). (Image: Isle of Wight County Press)

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The landslip happened in early January and Mr Gardiner says he has had enough.

He told the County Press: "I'm refusing to go. The council are saying the footpath is not safe and have blocked it off.

"It's my home and I've done a lot of work here, I don't want to leave."

The County Press asked the Isle of Wight Council if they were aware of what caused the landslip, and what the situation was for the public footpath.

A spokesperson said: "We are not aware of the specific cause of the landslip, but this type of event is not uncommon in this area.

"The coastal path affected by the landslip has been closed and no attempts should be made to look at the damage or walk the path. 

"The council have erected temporary coastal path diversion signage and the situation will be monitored and reopening opportunities will be considered once the current damage has settled.

"The owner has not been asked to move out of the property by the Isle of Wight Council.

"Only if a property is deemed to be a dangerous structure would that occur.

"The situation is being monitored and should the situation change then appropriate advice will be given."

The footpath is completely closed off. (Image: Isle of Wight County Press)