WHILE cliffs crumble around the Island as a result of torrential rain and freezing conditions, the Isle of Wight Council says its £4 million scheme at Castlehaven Cove has proved a success.
The Niton scheme, involving extensive land drainage, coastal defence and monitoring equipment was completed in 2004, ten years after a huge landslide.
That left 100 residents living on a knife-edge of uncertainty as the cliff edge crept ever-closer to their homes.
Recent landslips have been reported around the Island, most prominently threatening the Military Road.
But Isle of Wight Council principal coastal engineer Peter Marsden said: "Since the land stability and ground monitoring system was installed at Castlehaven in 2004 the area has experienced no major landslides.
"The system, unique in the UK, was developed specifically for the geology of the area. It seeks to protect the roads and houses of Castlehaven from damaging ground movement and to date has proved effective."