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Thursday 8 May 2025

Newquay Strategic Route opens with Network Rail bridge now in use

Region & Route:

Wales & Western: Western

| Wales & Western

The Newquay Strategic Route – a new road to improve transport links and unlock economic growth in Newquay – has opened to the public, with Network Rail’s new bridge over the railway now in use.

The Newquay Strategic Route, built by the Duchy of Cornwall and Cornwall Council, provides a new link between the south and east of the town and crosses the Newquay branch line via Network Rail’s bridge.

The 25m-long single-arch bridge was built with 16 pre-cast concrete units, each weighing 28.6 tonnes. They were lifted into place with a 500-tonne crane before the embankments were constructed and the bridge cladded with 1,000 tonnes of granite from the local De Lank quarry.

As well as improving traffic flow around Newquay, the new road will enable thousands of new homes, community facilities and a household waste recycling centre to be built. It will support businesses in Nansledan and link up walking and cycling routes.

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.”

Phil Mason, strategic director for sustainable growth and development at Cornwall Council said: “The delivery of the Newquay Strategic Route 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.”

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.”