Thank you for all your comments. Below are answers to some of the questions raised over the past few days and a short video which provides more information about the changes.

You can view the video here

The trial scheme will be introduced on Monday, 17 November. A specific Tregenna Hill ETRO webpage is being set up on Let’s Talk Cornwall to provide information about the trial and enable people to raise feedback throughout the trial period. This will go live at the launch of the trial.  A link to this page will be provided on the launch date.  

If you have any further questions please email [email protected]

Why is the trial scheme being introduced

The current traffic movements on Tregenna Hill result in numerous daily conflicts between vehicles and pedestrians, impacting on everyone’s safety and user experience. The aim of the trial is to improve general traffic flow, resulting in a safer space for all users in and around Library Corner.  The changes will also support the broader aims of the Town Deal Transport Strategy and the creation of a Low Traffic Environment in the town centre.

What is being proposed?

• Tregenna Hill – No Entry from The Terrace – except for buses, cyclists and emergency services (including lifeboat crews on active duty). All traffic will still be able to drive southbound upTregenna Hill.
• Changing Albert Road from two way to one way towards Park Avenue, improving the flow of traffic and reducing traffic congestion and delays
• Reversing the current one-way at Park Avenue, allowing inbound traffic only towards Bullans Lane and the Doctors surgery
• Tregenna Place – introduction of Pedestrian and Cycle Zone with authorised vehicles only between 10 am and 4 pm  
• No right turn at the bottom of Bedford Road

What are the benefits of the scheme ?

The general removal of northbound traffic down Tregenna Hill is expected to reduce the delays, impact and congestion caused in the current situation, whereby vehicles are having to navigate past each other in a highly constrained space.

This situation regularly leads to unavoidable vehicle manoeuvres that impact on safety such as awkward reversing movements and driving upon the footways. The changes will also make it easier for buses, lorries and other large vehicles to get around the narrow points and corners along the route.

The reversal of traffic flow along Park Avenue will help to reduce a potential network pressure up over the Burrows to the Stennack, past Trenwith Car Park and Leisure Centre.  By providing a route for local traffic, the reversal will help maintain a balance of vehicles on the road network in this part of the town.

Will the changes reduce the level of traffic at Library Corner

Although supported by the wider transport strategy measures, this trial alone is unlikely to reduce the overall amount of traffic at Library Corner. However, the imposed restrictions on Tregenna Hill, mean that general traffic will only be flowing in one direction, reducing the opportunity for conflict to occur, creating a more controlled environment. 

How long will the trial last 

The trial will remain in place for at least six months but is likely to be extended up to 12 months to include the summer season before a final decision is made.

How will you ensure drivers understand the changes?

New signs are being installed at key roads and junctions informing drivers of the changes and new restrictions, providing details of alternative routes into and out of St Ives. During at least the first week of the trial, traffic marshals will also be in place at key locations to help support drivers who may be unaware or unsure of the change.

Can I access my holiday accommodation through the Pedestrian and Cycle Zone (on Tregenna Place)?

Yes, you may access rented premises – including to pick up or drop off passengers or luggage. You are encouraged to be considerate of other road users, including pedestrians, during busy times.

Can I drive through the Pedestrian and Cycle zone (on Tregenna Place) to access on the road parking and go shopping?

No, only the conveyance of persons, goods or merchandise (if these can’t be reasonably conveyed other than by vehicle) directly to or from premises is permitted. Please note that the Island area of St Ives is also a restricted parking zone.

Can I, or my visitors, access my residential property through the Pedestrian and Cycle Zone (on Tregenna Place)?

Yes, residential and visitor access directly to premises is still permitted.

Can I use Chapel Street to access the town centre (bypass the Pedestrian and Cycle Zone)?

No, there is an existing Prohibition of Motor Vehicles (except for access) restriction on Chapel Street, which will still be in effect during the trial. Therefore, only vehicles accessing properties on, or only reasonably accessible from, Chapel Street, should use this road.

Are there alternative travel options into the town?

There is a Park & Ride service from St Erth train station, and regular buses services from other nearby towns. You can find information on available bus services at: www.transportforcornwall.co.uk/services

What will happen to the disabled parking bays on Gabriel Street?

The disabled parking bays on Gabriel Street will be maintained.

I’m visiting St Ives, where can I park?

Any of the currently available private or public car parks – this trial does not affect their use.

 The main car parks are: The Station Car Park (accessible from The Terrace), Trenwith Car Park (next to St Ives leisure centre) and Park Avenue Car Park (on Park Avenue).

Please note that Trenwith Car Park has the largest capacity, and a shuttle bus service between Trenwith Car Park and the Town Centre (Royal Square) is available at seasonal times.

From Trenwith Car Park, how can I exit St Ives to Carbis Bay?

From Trenwith Car Park, head straight ahead on the Burrows to the mini-roundabout junction with Higher Stennack. Turn right towards The Stennack and follow the signs to Carbis Bay.

Why were traffic lights not used at Library Corner?

The use of traffic lights was fully considered; however, these were not proceeded with due to technical challenges and potential to cause greater level of traffic congestion within the town.

Can I access the THCP Ltd Car Park on Tregenna Hill, or the Car Park on Skidden Hill from The Terrace?

Yes, These car parks remain accessible from The Terrace. However, it will not be possible to reach the town centre when exiting  from these.

What is the ETRO process?

The use of an ETRO means that Cornwall Council as Highways Authority can make modifications throughout the trial period, responding agilely to specific issues or concerns that are observed.

This will provide greater chance for success, with both community feedback and engineer analysis shaping the ultimate decision making as to whether the trialled changes are made permanent or not.