Sat-nav systems are directing traffic from A30 roadworks through narrow Cornish village lanes, with councillors warning that the volume of vehicles is creating safety risks near a primary school.
The disruption is linked to National Highways’ £9.8m safety scheme between Kennards House and Five Lanes. Work began on 5 September and is scheduled to continue for six months, covering changes at six junctions.
Concerns over local diversion routes
Cornwall Council deputy leader Cllr Adam Paynter said drivers were being directed off the A30 towards Trewint, where “loads of cars” were using rural back roads before rejoining the main queue. He said the single-track lanes, bordered by high hedges, were not capable of handling the traffic and that vehicles were being forced to reverse when congestion built up.
He also identified similar problems at Tregadillett, where residents were struggling to leave their homes and where he said it was “dangerous walking little Johnny to school”. Cllr Adrian Parsons, who represents Altarnun and Stoke Climsland, criticised the consultation process and described the six-month duration as unacceptable.
Residents have also reported disruption. Local resident Ali Packham said concerns about the narrow lanes were raised at a public meeting before the scheme began. She said she had abandoned a horse ride because the usual route had become too dangerous.
National Highways reviewing arrangements
National Highways said the scheme was based on collision analysis showing a need to improve visibility, junction layouts, road markings, signage and other safety features. The long-term objective is to reduce the frequency and severity of collisions along the affected stretch.
A spokesperson apologised for the frustration and disruption experienced by road users and residents. They said traffic management would remain in place even when work was not visibly taking place, to protect road users, workers, equipment and partially completed works.
On the diversion concerns, National Highways said it recognised questions about the suitability of the routes and the effectiveness of the signing. It had received feedback about traffic using local roads and the impact on nearby communities, and was reviewing the arrangements with Cornwall Council and traffic management partners.
Paynter said weekly meetings had now been agreed with National Highways, with the council’s highways department providing advice. He said “things are changing a bit” as a result.
Dispute over the scheme’s priorities
Paynter separately argued that funding would have been better directed towards a flyover at Plusha junction, which he described as Cornwall’s worst accident blackspot. National Highways has previously said a flyover was considered too expensive compared with the current programme of junction alterations.
For drivers, the disruption is expected to continue while the review takes place. National Highways is advising road users to allow extra time and follow signed routes rather than relying exclusively on sat-nav shortcuts.