First Two Sustainable Travel Schemes Completed in Penzance

Penzance is marking a major milestone as work wraps up on the first two schemes of its Sustainable Travel Network, funded through the Town Deal programme. Led by Cornwall Council and Penzance Town Deal Board, the schemes aim to transform how people move through and experience the town.

Safer Crossing at Newlyn Green

The first scheme, completed at the end of March, tackled long-standing safety concerns along New Road. Before the upgrade, there were no pedestrian crossings directly linking the northwest side of the road with Newlyn Green and the coast path.

The improvements include two new signalised puffin crossings at Bowling Green and Newlyn Green, along with new steps and ramps into the park. A vehicle-activated 20 mph sign has also been installed to help reduce traffic speeds in the area.

“I am delighted that the pedestrian crossings on New Road and the electronic speed advisory sign have all been installed and are working well,” said Jim McKenna, Cornwall Councillor for Penzance Promenade and Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care & Health Partnerships. “The vast majority of residents living in the vicinity and the Penlee Bowls Club members, have welcomed the safety improvements and the fact that they can cross what is a very busy road without worrying about speeding traffic.

“John Garrison who initiated the campaign, but unfortunately passed away before the works were undertaken, would have been very happy.”

📷 Cornwall Councillor Thalia Marrington, Cornwall Councillor for Mousehole, Newlyn and St Buryan; Tom James, Cormac Project Manager for Penzance Sustainable Travel Network schemes; Kieren Couch, Project Manager for the Cornwall Town Deal transport programme; and Cornwall Councillor Jim McKenna, Cornwall Councillor for Penzance Promenade, trying out one of the new crossings on New Road.

A New Look and Feel at Causewayhead

The second completed scheme focused on Causewayhead, previously criticised as an unattractive and difficult gateway into town, particularly for those arriving from the north. Issues like “rat running” and poorly positioned pedestrian crossings had made it challenging for both walkers and cyclists.

Now the area has seen a full refresh. Improvements include:

• Widened footways with new granite and tactile paving

• A raised table pedestrian crossing where Causewayhead meets Clarence Street

• A revamped zebra crossing on St Clare Street

• A new build-out crossing on Taroveor Road, replacing the old zebra crossing

• Full carriageway resurfacing and new road markings

• Benches, bike stands and decorative landscaping

The enhancements also complement the new Pixel building, a creative workspace on Causewayhead supported by the European Regional Development Fund and Future High Streets Fund.

“It’s been amazing to see Pixel come to life over the past six months – the creative energy in the town has been incredible,” said Gavin Eddy, CEO of Forward Space. “The improvements to Causewayhead have made a real difference too, making it easier for people to find us and feel part of the wider town. We’re really excited about what’s next.”

More Improvements on the Way

While these two schemes are complete, more upgrades are on the horizon.

Planning permission was granted last month for the Ponsandane Cycle Hub, with work expected to start in September. Another scheme focused on Market Jew Street and Market Place kicked off on 21st July, aiming to improve accessibility for pedestrians, cyclists and public transport users.

September will also see the start of work on the bus station and Branwells Gyratory. Meanwhile, the latest plans for Coinagehall Street and Battery Road are due to be considered by the Town Deal Board in the autumn.

The Penzance Sustainable Travel Network is backed by £3.5 million from the government’s Town Deal programme and a further £3 million from Cornwall Council. In total, the town secured a £21.5 million Town Deal to help boost the local economy and support regeneration projects.

“It’s great to see these first two transport schemes completed in Penzance,” said Martin Tucker, Chair of Penzance Town Deal Board. “Through the Penzance Town Deal and our Sustainable Travel Programme, we’re investing in a town centre that works better for everyone: residents, businesses, and visitors.

“This is a significant investment in the future of Penzance — one that will make our town more resilient, vibrant, and welcoming for years to come.”

📷Tom James, Kieren Council and Penzance BID Manager Sarah Shaw at Casusewayhead