How tidy is Newquay? BID calls for action over safety and cleanliness concerns

Sunday, 12 April 2026 14:25

The manager of a business group in Newquay has raised concerns about the condition of some public assets, signage and infrastructure in the town.

Newquay Business Improvement District (BID) says it is continuing its focus on keeping the town “safe, clean and green”, while calling on organisations to take greater responsibility for maintaining public infrastructure.

Over the coming weeks, the body will carry out a comprehensive visual audit of the town centre, documenting issues and submitting them directly to the organisations responsible.

Mark Warren from Newquay BID said a number of concerns remained around road infrastructure, including faded road markings, worn signage, potholes and deteriorating road surfaces.

He said these issues were affecting both the appearance of the town and public safety.

Among the locations highlighted are Fore Street car park, where unclear markings are said to be causing drivers to turn into oncoming traffic, and Marcus Hill, where vehicles have reportedly entered a one-way system incorrectly.

Concerns have also been raised about faded yellow lines and access issues at Wesley Yard, Gover Lane and along the Crescent.

Mr Warren said: “These are not just maintenance issues, they are public safety concerns.

“While we recognise the pressures on highways teams, issues like these should not be left unresolved for months or years. These areas in particular require urgent attention.”

PRESS PLAY to hear our conversation with Mark Warren from Newquay BID...

BID is calling on Cornwall Council’s highways department to prioritise the issues and ensure roads, signage and markings are maintained to a safe standard.

Mayor of Newquay, Drew Creek, said he supported the concerns being raised.

“The state of some of our town centre infrastructure including faded road markings, unclear signage, deteriorating road surfaces, is not acceptable, and in several of the cases highlighted, these are genuine safety risks that need urgent attention,” he said.

He added that he regularly hears similar concerns from residents and businesses, and urged infrastructure bodies to work with the BID and the wider community to improve standards.

Newquay BID is encouraging businesses and members of the public to report issues such as damaged road markings or unsafe signage through Cornwall Council’s “Report It” system.

The organisation said the work formed part of a wider effort to support Newquay as a year-round destination, with ongoing investment in events, transport, local businesses and public spaces.

Mr Warren added: “Newquay is evolving into a strong, all-year-round town.

“But to support that growth, we need all organisations to step up, take pride in their presence, and ensure their infrastructure reflects the quality and potential of our town.”

Radio Newquay has approached Cornwall Council for Comment.

PRESS PLAY to hear our conversation with Mark Warren from Newquay BID...