New Crossing Approved for A38 in Tideford After Safety Campaign

A new pedestrian crossing is set to be built on the A38 in Tideford, marking a major milestone for campaigners and residents who have long called for safer conditions through the village.

Construction Planned for March 2026

Cornwall Council has approved plans for a puffin crossing across the A38 following a public consultation that took place between 17th September and 8th October. The results were published on 3rd November, showing overwhelming support for the proposal.

Some participants in the consultation suggested amending parts of the design. These will be reviewed through an independent Road Safety Audit before work begins, with construction scheduled for March 2026.

Backed by Local Leaders

Anna Gelderd, Member of Parliament for South East Cornwall, and Kate Ewert, Cornwall Councillor for Rame Peninsula and St Germans, have both welcomed the news.

Anna said:
“I know that a pedestrian crossing in Tideford is a key part of ensuring the long-term safety of the A38, and this is a top priority for people living alongside the major route.

“I’d like to pay tribute to the efforts of SafeA38 and Labour councillor Kate Ewert. It’s clear that this success demonstrates what Labour does for communities, and I am proud to work with colleagues and local groups to deliver safety improvements. I’ll continue to take action on behalf of local people to address issues that matter to them.”

Kate added:
“I am delighted that this scheme to end the severance of the village is progressing at long last. This crossing will mean residents and visitors to Tideford no longer have to take their lives in their hands to get across the busy A38.

“This has been a long time coming, and has been a long-standing campaign for me and Safe38.”

📷Anna Gelderd and Kate Ewert in Torpoint

A Victory for Campaigners

The announcement follows years of campaigning by the Safe38 Action Group. The group’s chair, James Millidge, described the decision as a crucial win for safety in the community.

James said:
“Safe38 are delighted that a signalised crossing for pedestrians is soon to be delivered in Tideford. For too long, residents, including young children, have had to negotiate fast-moving heavy traffic on the A38 to simply walk from one side of the village to the other.

“It has been real teamwork to get to this point, and we must especially thank our elected officials for their tireless work to see it become reality.

“This news is hot on the heels of the recent reduction in the speed limit in Tideford to 30mph, which combined with this new crossing, will make residents’ daily lives much safer.”

Part of a Wider Safety Push

The new crossing follows a series of improvements on the A38, including a £750,000 upgrade to the section between Carkeel and Trerulefoot and the introduction of an average speed check system earlier this summer.

Photos supplied with the announcement show Anna with National Highways in the Saltash Tunnel, and Anna and Kate together in Torpoint.

📷Anna with National Highways in the Saltash Tunnel