Newquay 'strategic route' opens in bid to boost transport links
The Newquay Strategic Route provides a new link between the south and east of the town as well as a safe route over the Newquay to Par railway branch line
A key 'strategic route' has opened in Newquay in a bid to improve transport links and support economic growth locally.
The ribbon has finally been cut on the last link for a new road which will improve transport links and enable the building of new homes, community facilities and a household waste recycling centre.
The Newquay Strategic Route (NSR) - now the A3059 - connects Hendra with St Columb Major and Trevenson.
Cornwall Council say this final section – from the A392 at Hendra roundabout to Nansledan high street - provides a new link between the south and east of the town as well as a safe route for vehicles over the Newquay to Par railway branch line.
The NSR is promised to;
- Improve traffic flows in Newquay
- Unlock further development for homes for local residents, including by the Duchy of Cornwall and adjoining landowners, who will collectively provide over 4,500 homes in total
- Enable construction on a new household waste recycling centre
- Support local Nansledan businesses by increasing footfall in the area
- Form a key part of the wider network of new walking and cycle routes around the west of Newquay and enable the closure of railway crossings at Trencreek and Chapel to vehicles
The road project also promises to support residents to make more sustainable choices for shorter journeys in and around the area, as well as provide access to green spaces and wildlife habitats.
'A long-standing aim'
Phil Mason, strategic director for sustainable growth and development at Cornwall Council said; “The delivery of the NSR has been a long-standing aim of the Newquay Growth Area, including Nansledan, and could not have happened without the support and commitment of all the delivery partners, including Network Rail and the Duchy of Cornwall.
“This new route demonstrates our commitment to building the infrastructure to support inward investment and much needed housing for local residents.”
The first sections of the NSR - the Rialton link from Nansledan to the A3059 to St Columb Major and the Western Arm over Trevenson Road and into town - were built by the Duchy of Cornwall after the council successfully bid for Government funding for the project.
Sam Kirkness, Nansledan development manager at the Duchy of Cornwall, said: “We are delighted to see the completion of the Newquay Strategic Route, which marks a major milestone for Nansledan and the wider Newquay area. This vital infrastructure will transform connectivity and unlock a range of benefits while bringing increased vibrancy to Nansledan. We’re proud to have worked in partnership to help deliver a scheme that will benefit local residents, businesses and future generations.”
This final, one kilometre section has been built by Cormac on behalf of the council and features a 140-metre elevated causeway. It also features two bridges – one over the valley built by Cormac and a second over the railway line built by Network Rail.
Bogdan Lupu, Network Rail industry programme director, said: “It’s exciting to see the Newquay Strategic Route open and we’re proud to have played a critical role in building a new bridge over the Newquay branch line.
“This project is another great example of partners working together to benefit the local community.”