A SCENIC stretch of highway has been reopened this week following the completion of a diversion after a section of the road was lost to a massive landslip 18 months ago.

Traders and residents along Undercliff Drive in Niton breathed a sigh of relief as the road was finally reopened at a special ceremony held on Tuesday.

The 250-metre diversion at Beauchamps was opened by executive spokesman for transport Councillor Ernie Fox, Isle of Wight Council leader Shirley Smart and head of highways, Steve Matthews.

Cllr Fox said: "The council has been as frustrated as anyone that it has taken so long getting this works started after the catastrophic landslip 18 months ago but there were so many legal, financial and environmental obstacles to overcome, to say nothing of the protracted negotiations with local property owners. However, throughout the council never lost sight of the fact that this road is vitally important to local residents and businesses as well as Islanders generally and visitors."

He added: "It is therefore particularly pleasing the diversion work has been completed by Hanslip Developments ahead of schedule. This is almost entirely due to the tremendous efforts by this local contractor, who has worked over many hours, seven days a week, to ensure this important highway between Niton and Ventnor is operational as quickly as possible."

Another section of Undercliff Drive, by Undercliff Glen Caravan Park, is currently restricted to single-lane traffic with controlled lights because of landslip problems 18 months ago. Experts are looking at the site in a bid to restore two-lane traffic. There are three other sections of Undercliff Drive under investigation.

All further works to provide a permanent solution to the problems of Undercliff Drive will need additional funding and some negotiations with environmental bodies.

A cottage in the grounds of Beauchamps was demolished to make way for the new diversion.

It is also intended to demolish the main house, but this work has been delayed pending expert advice on how to best rehome bats that were found in the roof.