Transforming Truro: Major Green Transport Scheme to Begin at Malpas Road

Published On: 23 January 2025Last Updated: 23 January 2025By CornishStuff

Work on the first phase of Truro’s ambitious Malpas transport scheme, part of the £23.6m Town Deal funding, is set to begin on Monday, 27th January. The project aims to enhance safety and provide better walking and cycling facilities along the river edge, linking key locations such as Malpas, Boscawen Park, and the national cycle network.

What is the Malpas Scheme?

The scheme is the first to be delivered under the Truro Green Transport project, a major component of the Town Deal programme. Designed with community input, the project seeks to improve connectivity while creating safer and more accessible pedestrian and cycling routes.

Measures include improved access to footpaths, new crossing points, and traffic calming features along Malpas Road. The first phase will see the Pendeen Road roundabout replaced with a landscaped green space and transformed into a T-junction, featuring new paving, seating, planting, and footpath links.

Community Feedback Shapes Final Designs

A consultation held between 12th December 2024 and 10th January 2025 saw strong public support for the plans, provided access to properties was maintained. Paul Maycock, the project manager, assured residents that access will be preserved, stating, “We received positive engagement to the consultation and would like to thank everyone who took part. We have listened carefully to all the comments and are using this feedback to develop the final designs.”

What to Expect During Construction

Cormac will begin preparatory work on site during the week of 20th January, with formal construction starting on 27th January. The first phase is expected to be completed by the end of March. Subsequent phases, starting in April, will include new crossing points, footway improvements, minor junction changes, and resurfacing, with the entire scheme due for completion by the end of 2025.

To minimise disruption, most work will take place during the day using temporary traffic lights. Limited night work will be communicated directly to affected residents. Advanced notice of road closures will be provided, and emergency services access will always be ensured.

Leadership Comments on the Project

Alan Stanhope, Chair of the Truro Town Deal Board, acknowledged the strong public involvement, saying, “It is nice to see democracy working in practice, and I believe these designs show listening and adaptability on the part of Council Highways team, whilst maintaining the ambitions of the scheme.”

Louis Gardner, Cornwall Council’s portfolio holder for the economy, highlighted the wider benefits of the project: “Green ways to travel are essential for a thriving and sustainable Cornwall, and thanks to this Town Deal investment in Truro, even more pedestrians and cyclists will be able to enjoy getting around city safely, for work or leisure.”