A LEVEL crossing in Newquay has closed to traffic following the opening of the new strategic route through Nansledan.

Network Rail has shut the Chapel level crossing to vehicles, but it is still open for pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders following the new restrictions being in place.

The level crossing at Trencreek is due to close to traffic on Thursday, May 15.

The plan aims to prevent vehicles from being able to use Trencreek as a ‘rat run’ following concerns the residential area is blighted by traffic.

Signalised crossings will show users when it is safe to cross and to alert them when trains are approaching.

A spokesperson for Network Rail said: “Chapel level crossing has now been closed to traffic but is still open to pedestrians.”

“The work needed to close Trencreek is taking place overnight on May 15, so that there is no disruption to trains. From May 15 the crossing will be closed to traffic but remain open to pedestrians.

”Both crossings are essentially being changed from level crossings to foot crossings only.”

The Newquay Strategic Route, built by the Duchy of Cornwall and Cornwall Council, aims to ease congestion and provide better transport links for communities living to the east of the town.

The new road, which has been named the A3059 features a bridge at Nansledan to provide a safe route for vehicles across the Newquay to Par branch line.

The route connects Hendra with St Columb Major and Trevenson and will enable thousands of new homes, community facilities as well as improving traffic flow around Newquay. It will support businesses in Nansledan and link up walking and cycling routes.

The new road will also enable construction on a new household waste recycling centre to replace the ‘at capacity’ facility at Trevenson Road.