A BUSINESS boss has called on the community to support traders in Newquay town centre during controversial road works to remove parking spaces and create a new cycle lane.

Mark Warren, the manager of Newquay BID, fears businesses in Cliff Road could struggle whilst there is traffic disruption during the Mid Cornwall Metro works, which get underway today (Monday, September 7).

A one-way traffic diversion system operating from the Narrowcliff area, around Trenance Hill and back onto Cliff Road will be in place for several months.

The scheme in Cliff Road, between Oakleigh Terrace and Edgecumbe Avenue, includes a new cycle route, footway and public realm improvements, new pedestrian crossing, changes to kerbs and the road layout, drainage, ducting and utility works as well as new surfacing and road markings.

The works, which aim to make the roads leading to and around Newquay Train Station safer for walkers and cyclists, are due to be completed by the late spring of next year.

There are fears businesses in Cliff Road will further suffer a loss of trade after the 19 short term parking spaces are lost to make way for the cycle scheme. A campaign titled Save Cliff Road parking received more than 1,000 signatures backing calls for an alternative route for the cycle lane.

Mr Warren said: “We all know the project has mixed public opinion, but now that the works are going ahead, the biggest concern is the potential impact on the fantastic local businesses on Cliff Road.

“These businesses are going into what is already a very challenging time of year, and they need our support more than ever.

“There are, however, some measures in place to help. “We have been reassured that from the start of the works until the beginning of October, parking at Tolcarne Road car park will be free for the first hour. From October onwards, the car park will be free all day.

“There are also now more than 80 additional spaces available at Tolcarne Road, following work carried out ahead of the Mid Cornwall Metro works. There is also a parking at the railway station, where there is currently 30 minutes free parking.

“Most importantly, please keep visiting Cliff Road. Grab a coffee, have lunch, shop locally, treat yourself and support the brilliant independent businesses that make our town what it is.

“The works will be disruptive. There is no point pretending otherwise. But if we continue to support these businesses throughout the disruption, we can help them get through to the other side.

“The BID will be keeping a close eye on traffic updates and any issues that arise, and we will remain in regular contact with the businesses throughout the process. “The works are happening and they are going ahead. Now, more than ever, let’s make sure our local businesses know that the community is behind them.

“I appeal to people to please keep coming down to Cliff Road and keep supporting local.”