Have Your Say on Penzance’s New Transport Plans: Safer Streets for Market Jew Street and Market Place

Plans for transforming the heart of Penzance into a safer, more welcoming area for pedestrians and cyclists are set to go live for public consultation on Thursday, 14th November. Aiming to enhance Market Jew Street and Market Place, the proposed improvements form part of the broader Penzance Sustainable Travel Network project, which is working towards a safe, sustainable transport network in and around the town.

Transforming Market Jew Street

The Market Jew Street scheme proposes reinforcing the existing pedestrian zone, which has already reduced traffic flow through Penzance’s town centre during peak times. The new plan would establish a more effective pedestrian gateway, improving accessibility for all and enhancing the overall streetscape with greenery to attract more visitors. While this street remains a key area with notable heritage buildings, the visual appeal of its streetscapes is seen as needing significant enhancement.

The updates aim to benefit pedestrians, cyclists, public transport users, and those with reduced mobility, making the town centre more accessible and enjoyable.

Below are some artists impressions of the new scheme:

Improvements at Market Place

Currently, Market Place presents various challenges for pedestrians due to a lack of crossings and narrow footways. The proposed scheme will introduce courtesy crossings that connect the north and south footways, filling in the bus stop layby with granite paving to expand pedestrian space. Additionally, the bus stop will be relocated onto the road, and a new bus shelter will be installed to enhance the experience for public transport users.

The consultation, which will run for three weeks from 14 November, is being organised by Cormac in partnership with the Penzance Sustainable Travel Network project team. Feedback from residents will be considered for the final designs of these transport projects.

For more details on the proposals, including maps and drawings, and to participate in the consultation, residents can visit Cornwall Council’s transport consultation site. Responses can also be emailed to traffic@cormacltd.co.uk.

Background on the Town Deal Funding

Penzance’s Sustainable Travel Network project is part of the Penzance Town Deal programme, funded by the UK Government’s Town Deals initiative. In 2021, the Penzance Town Deal Board, in partnership with Cornwall Council, secured £21.9 million to support town regeneration and boost the local economy. Of this funding, £6.1 million has been allocated to the Sustainable Travel Network project, supporting improvements in urban regeneration and connectivity.

The construction work on Market Jew Street is scheduled to start in Autumn 2025, after the busy summer tourist season and the completion of the nearby Causewayhead Town Deal project. Improvements to Market Place will follow, with a coordinated approach to minimise construction impact.

With a deadline of March 2026 to deliver all the schemes funded under the Town Deal, the project team is eager to ensure these changes bring long-term benefits to Penzance’s residents and visitors alike.

For further information about the Town Deal programme, visit the Penzance Town Fund website or Cornwall Council’s Town Deal Fund page.