Storm Goretti Clean-Up Continues as Disruption Persists Across Cornwall

Cornwall Council says clean-up and recovery work following Storm Goretti is continuing across the county, with disruption expected to last for several more days.

Council teams have been working around the clock since the storm hit, clearing fallen trees and debris, responding to safety risks and supporting communities across Cornwall. While progress has been made, the scale of the damage means travel disruption and impacts on schools and services are likely to continue into this week.

Thanks for Staff and Residents

Council Leader Leigh Frost thanked both council staff and residents for their efforts and patience.

“I want to sincerely thank our council staff and partner agencies who have worked tirelessly, day and night, in extremely challenging conditions to keep people safe and restore access across Cornwall, their dedication has been outstanding,” he said.

“This is a complex recovery and while progress is being made, disruption will continue for several days, and I’d like to thank residents for their continued patience and understanding.”

Roads Still Affected Across Cornwall

Highways teams are dealing with what the Council described as an unprecedented number of storm-related incidents, particularly in west Cornwall. Main routes and urgent access points are being prioritised, though several smaller roads remain affected.

Cabinet Member for Transport Dan Rogerson said: “Our highways teams have done a tremendous job responding to a huge number of incidents in a very short space of time.

“I want to thank every member of staff involved for their commitment and professionalism. We are continuing to prioritise safety-critical routes, but people should expect travel disruption to continue while this essential work carries on.”

Support for Vulnerable Residents

The Council is prioritising support for vulnerable residents affected by prolonged power outages, particularly those who rely on powered equipment or have additional care needs.

Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health Partnerships Jim McKenna said: “I’d like to thank our adult social care teams for the extraordinary work they’re doing to support some of our most vulnerable residents during this prolonged period of disruption. They are checking on people, resolving concerns and making sure support is in place where it’s needed most. If anyone is worried about themselves or someone else, please get in touch so we can help.”

Community Safety and Ongoing Hazards

Work is continuing across Cornwall to reduce hazards and protect communities as recovery progresses.

Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Public Health Thalia Marrington said: “I’d like to thank residents for the amazing community spirit we’ve seen on display across Cornwall during such a trying time, particularly with people coming together to help keep our communities safe.

“Our teams have been out in very difficult conditions dealing with hazards, supporting communities and coordinating the Council’s response. I also want to thank them for their dedication and resilience. Public safety remains our priority, and we ask people to continue taking care and to follow the advice we’ve provided or signage that’s in place.”

School Disruption Continues

Some schools were unable to reopen on Monday due to storm damage or unresolved safety concerns. Others opened later in the day to allow essential safety checks to be completed.

The Council has issued risk assessment guidance to support schools and is working with school transport providers where access remains difficult.

Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Schools Hilary Frank said: “School leaders and council staff have been working incredibly hard to assess sites and make the right decisions for pupils and staff. School closures are updated regularly on Cornwall Council’s website.

“I want to thank everyone involved for putting safety first. We realise this is disruptive for families, but it’s vital that schools only open when conditions are safe.”

Where to Get Updates and Help

Cornwall Council says it will continue to share updates through its website and social media channels. Residents are encouraged to check these regularly and report ongoing issues through the Council’s reporting systems.

• For social care emergencies involving adults, call 0300 1234 131. To request help for a child, call 01208 251300.

• For out of hours emergency repairs, Medequip can be reached on 020 8573 2871.

• If you are without power, contact National Grid on 105 or 0800 6783 105, or read their <a href=”https://powercuts.nationalgrid.co.uk/power-cut-advice/what-to-do”>power cut advice</a>.

• Fallen trees or branches on highways or Council land can be reported with a photo and what3words location via the Council website or by calling 0300 1234 222.

Recovery work is continuing across Cornwall as teams focus on safety and restoring services following Storm Goretti.