Residents and motorists across west Cornwall are being advised to plan ahead as Cornwall Council has confirmed a significant programme of temporary road closures set to begin in early January 2026. The works, authorised under Section 14(1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, will impact numerous towns and villages, with projects ranging from major bridge replacements to utility upgrades and overnight maintenance.
Key Road Closures and Dates for Your Diary
The council has published a detailed schedule of affected roads, which includes some of the region's key routes. The most substantial closure will be on Wharf Road over Ross Swing Bridge in Penzance, which will be shut 24 hours a day from 5th January to 2nd April 2026 for a full bridge deck replacement. Pedestrian access will remain, but drivers must follow signed diversions.
Other notable long-term works include overnight maintenance on the A394 between Treliever Roundabout and the A30 junction at Marazion. This will take place on weekdays from 5th to 30th January 2026, between 7pm and 6am.
Weekday Works and Localised Disruptions
A series of shorter, more localised closures are also planned for utility connections and cabling works. These will primarily occur on weekdays during daytime or overnight hours to minimise disruption. Affected areas include:
- St Just: Access to Gwaynten from Carallack Lane closed 7th-9th Jan (24hrs, weekdays).
- Newlyn: Gwavas Quay closed 5th-9th Jan (7pm-7am, weekdays) and Trewarveneth Street closed 7th Jan (9:30am-3:30pm).
- Hayle: Clifton Terrace closed 5th-9th Jan (8am-5pm, weekdays).
- St Ives: Trenwith Lane closed 21st-23rd Jan (24hrs).
Further poling and cabling works are scheduled for Rosudgeon, Crowlas, Lelant Downs, Leedstown, and Marazion on specific weekdays in January.
Travel Advice and How to Stay Informed
Cornwall Council has stated that signed diversion routes will be in place where available, and access to properties will be maintained in line with each scheme. However, for some locations, including parts of St Just and Hayle, no formal alternative route will be provided. Motorists are urged to allow extra time and follow all on-site signage.
Public transport and freight operators may need to adjust their routes and timings during these closures. Passengers are advised to check directly with their service providers for the latest updates.
The formal notice has been published in The Cornishman and is available on the Public Notice Portal. For official details and any subsequent changes, residents should consult Cornwall Council's highways updates. Those with specific concerns are encouraged to contact the relevant promoter for each scheme or the council's highways team.
Key contacts for the works are:
- General Highways (Cormac): 0300 1234 222
- South West Water: 0344 346 2020
- National Grid: 0800 6783 105
All schedules remain subject to change, and drivers are reminded to always follow the most recent on-site instructions.
