Ventnor Eastern Esplanade's sea defence works are in line for a People's Choice Award as it nears completion.

The multi-million-pound project has been named a finalist in this year's Constructing Excellence SECBE Awards 2024 Integration and Collaborative Working category.

Islanders are encouraged to support this achievement by casting their vote.

In November 2022, severe storms led to the collapse of a 35m portion of the Eastern Esplanade's revetment, threatening local dwellings and businesses.

The damage also exposed a crucial sewer, causing potential for significant environmental impact.

The Isle of Wight Council employed marine contractor Mackley to conduct urgent repairs, including the installation of numerous purpose-designed rock bags into the primary fault to stabilise the area.

Mackley used recycled timber to drive over 150 'king posts' into the seabed, erecting a new impervious sea wall before the aging defences from the 1960s.

The new wall was then backfilled and topped off with concrete, forming a fresh promenade due to open next week.

This restoration reinstates a key walking and cycling path along the seafront to Wheelers Bay.

The close collaboration between the council, Mackley, the Environment Agency, Jacobs, Southern Water, Island Roads, and Ventnor Town Council was seen as crucial to the success of the project.

To vote, visit the SECBE Awards 2024 Finalist Ventnor Eastern Esplanade page.

Public voting will conclude on June 20.

Paul Fuller, cabinet member for planning, coastal protection and flooding, said: "The project has really been an exemplar of collaboration, resourcefulness and commitment by all involved.

"Thanks to the swift actions of council officers and our partners, the emergency was averted, none of the high risks were realised, there was no breach of the sewer, no environmental incident, the collapse didn’t worsen and urgent works were delivered.

"I look forward to walking the new promenade when it reopens next week — just in time for the late May Bank Holiday and the summer months ahead. In the meantime, I'd urge everyone to get behind this Isle of Wight scheme and show their support by voting for it in the #SECBEAwards2024 People's Choice Award."