It's now thought the road above the landslide in Port St Mary is likely to remain closed for at least another fortnight.

Heavy machinery has been moved in to help stabilise the area around the landslip, below Bay View Road.

The Department of Transport has consulted an independent engineer to get a second opinion on the stability of the houses and buildings on the road, and he has concluded they are all currently stable and safe for occupation.

However, all the buildings and the retaining wall will be monitored over the coming days for any signs of subsidence during the recovery and repair operation.

The stabilisation work on the site will take place in three phases starting with work to stabilise the road and buildings, by creating a concrete foundation under the retaining wall and walkway.

Once this is complete, heavy excavation machinery can be brought in for phase two which will involve repairing and reconstructing the road. It's hoped the cause of the collapse can be confirmed during these works.

Phase three will a longer term stabilisation plan for the embankment.

The DOT is being assisted in its work by the Water Authority, Manx Gas and Manx Telecom.