Work to make the roads leading to and around Newquay Railway Station safer for walkers and cyclists will get underway in January.

The project to improve public spaces in Narrowcliff, which is part of the Mid Cornwall Metro, aims to create an attractive gateway to the local area where people want to spend time and visit local shops and businesses.

Phase one will see a widened walking and cycle shared use path built along Narrowcliff beginning at the junction of Edgecumbe Avenue to The Barrowfields.

Phase two, which is currently being designed and will be consulted on early next year will extend the walking and cycle path along Edgecumbe Avenue to Oakleigh Terrace and provide more crossing points.

Cornwall Council is developing proposals to increase the free parking duration at Newquay Station car park and provide additional parking at Tolcarne Road Coach Park as part of this phase of the project.

Cormac, which will be carrying out work on behalf of the council, will begin work on Monday, January 6. The project is expected to be completed towards the end of March 2025.

Mid Cornwall Metro is a £57m investment to upgrade the current rail links between four of Cornwall’s largest towns: Newquay, St Austell, Truro, and Falmouth/Penryn. It will help residents better connect to employment, education and key services.

Connor Donnithorne, Cornwall Council 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.

“And there’s lots of research showing the value of the ‘pedestrian pound’ and how attractive, connected public spaces increase dwell time in local shops and businesses.”