A SHANKLIN footpath will remain closed for as long as three months to complete after a sewer collapse.

The Isle of Wight council has today (Wednesday) announced that Osbourne Steps will remain closed as planned repairs from Southern Water are carried out.

The footpath was closed on September 4, when a portion of sewer beneath the footpath caved in.

A spokesperson for Southern Water said: “Following unforeseeable damage to a section of sewer pipe in Shanklin, caused by ground movements, works to carry out difficult repairs must now begin.

“No pollution was caused and any wastewater was intercepted and quickly dealt with.

“Because of the difficult nature and positioning of this section of pipe, work to replace it and find a permanent, safe solution will be taking place over the next three months.

“We'll continue to work closely with the Isle of Wight Council and any other partners to ensure our sewage pipe is repaired as quickly and as safely as possible.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused as we carry out these works.”