ST HELENS Causeway footpath, closed for a private landowner to carry out redevelopment of buildings, will not be closed for as long as previously thought.

After controversial plans were announced to close the popular footpath for six months over the summer, Isle of Wight Council members and officers met with St Helens Parish Council and Island Roads this week to discuss concerns about the path.

Council officers agreed with the landowner’s representatives that the path should remain closed for the initial works, but that this closure time could be a lot shorter.

An Isle of Wight Council spokesperson said: "Now the major part of the construction work is expected to be completed within eight weeks, during which the route will be closed at all times.

"From June, the path will be open on most days. There may be some short closures which will be clearly signed, but the causeway should normally remain open at evenings, weekends and bank holidays.

"The causeway itself will be open all the time from the Duver end, and walkers can use almost its entire length, returning the same way.

"Revised signs are to be put in place to explain the new arrangements."

Councillor Dave Stewart, leader of the Isle of Wight Council, said: "I am very pleased that we are able to keep this important tourist route open for most of the season.

"The landowner was happy to cooperate with our requests, and the result is a much reduced period of closure.

"This is an excellent result from our Rights of Way team who have shown once more our commitment to supporting the tourist infrastructure of the Island."