A major new road at Nansledan has moved a step closer with the installation by Network Rail of a bridge over the railway. The new road, known as the Newquay Strategic Route, will connect Nansledan to the A392 at the Hendra roundabout and will open in summer 2024.
The 25m-long single-arch bridge is being built over the Newquay-Par branch line by Network Rail and its delivery partner AmcoGiffen on behalf of Cornwall Council. It is made up of 16 pre-cast concrete units, each weighing 28.6 tonnes. Most of these were lifted overnight by two 500-tonne cranes on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 October while no trains were running, while the final two were scheduled to be installed on Monday 9 October.
The bridge will include a walkway and vehicle access underneath and be built to allow for potential future railway upgrades.
The Newquay Strategic Route will improve traffic flow east of Newquay and include space for pedestrians and cyclists. It will also form the main route through the commercial heart of Nansledan. The bridge will also improve safety on the railway by allowing Network Rail to restrict vehicle access at nearby level crossings.
Deborah Elliott, Network Rail lead portfolio manager, said: “We’re very excited to be working on this critical piece of the Newquay Strategic Route. “We developed a single-arch design so the bridge can be installed as efficiently and safely as possible, keeping disruption for rail passengers to a minimum. “We look forward to the bridge and the new route serving Nansledan and communities around Newquay for decades to come.”
Richard Pears, Cornwall Council cabinet portfolio holder for transport, said: “The Newquay Strategic Route will have long-lasting benefits for residents – reducing traffic in residential areas, supporting the local and wider economy and transport including active travel links, and enable the building of new homes.
“Connecting the road between Nansledan into Newquay, the new bridge is a key section for providing safer access across the railway line and resilience for the train network.”
Peter James, Nansledan project manager at the Duchy of Cornwall, said: “The completion of the Newquay Strategic Route is key to unlocking a range of social and economic benefits in the area and has been a real team effort.
“We are delighted to see the new bridge going in – it is a vital part of the route and we look forward to the road opening next year.”
Patrick Rosborough, AmcoGiffen operations director, said: “We’re delighted to be delivering this project together with Network Rail and in collaboration with our trusted supply partners. This vital addition to the route will help improve infrastructure as well as boosting the local economy.”
