Major works on the Narrowcliff to begin in January

Work is set to begin at Narrowcliff in Newquay in January, aimed at improving public spaces as part of the Mid Cornwall Metro project.

Cornwall Council says the development, which will be carried out in two phases, is designed to make the roads leading to and around Newquay Railway Station safer for pedestrians and cyclists, while creating an "attractive gateway" to the area.

Phase one will involve the construction of a shared walking and cycling path along Narrowcliff, starting at the junction of Edgecumbe Avenue and extending to The Barrowfields.

Phase two, currently under design with consultation planned for early next year, will extend the path along Edgecumbe Avenue to Oakleigh Terrace and add additional crossing points. The council also plans to introduce proposals to increase the free parking duration at Newquay Station Car Park and provide extra parking at Tolcarne Road Coach Park. Previously concerns have been raised among local businesses at the loss of parking spaces along Cliff Road to make way for a cycle lane.

The works, which will be carried out by Cormac on behalf of Cornwall Council, are scheduled to start on Monday 6th January 2025, with the project expected to be completed by the end of March 2025.

The Mid Cornwall Metro project, costing £57 million, aims to upgrade rail links between four towns: Newquay, St Austell, Truro, and Falmouth/Penryn. Cornwall Council believes the improvements will help residents access employment, education, and key services more easily.

Connor Donnithorne, Cornwall Council’s cabinet portfolio holder for transport, said: “There are several reasons for improving public spaces and accessibility on the roads and public spaces around the stations. Improving the ‘first and last mile’ makes it easier for people to make the choice to walk, cycle or catch the bus to their local station, rather than driving and adding to congestion on our roads.

“It also benefits those in the community who may not need to travel by train, and instead are travelling within their town or village. People are more likely to walk or cycle if they feel safe to do so."