A major new road near Newquay in Cornwall has moved one step closer to completion this weekend, with the installation of a new bridge over the railway.
The Newquay Strategic Route will connect Nansledan, on the edge of Newquay, to the A392 at the Hendra roundabout and is scheduled to open in summer 2024.
The 25m-long single-arch bridge was 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. The units will be lifted into place overnight by two 500-tonne cranes this weekend, while no trains were running.
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.”
Photo Credit: Network Rail
