2019 is a ‘critical year’ in Camelford’s fight for a bypass.

This was the news given by Rob Rotchell, town councillor and Cornwall Councillor for Camelford, at the recent extraordinary meeting, called to discuss existing, identified needs and requirements of the town.

On reaching the subject of a bypass, Cllr Rotchell said: “This year in 2019, if we are ever going to secure the bypass, 2019 is a critical year. This year we need to produce a business case or reproduce a business case for the bypass.

“There’s a huge amount of capital in year 20/21. The A39 was detruncked some years ago. Last year we got it put back into the major route network, so we can apply for the money.”

Cllr Rotchell said there would be £37-million available.

He explained that the work and the business case have started, with work being undertaken by Nigel Blackler, head of transport for Cornwall Council.

“I’m optimistic that the big sum of money to finance the business case will be available this year,” said Cllr Rotchell who added that the business case has to be ready in 2019.

However, as well as being optimistic, Cllr Rotchell said he was also pessimistic.

“If we don’t do this now we should never talk about it again. This pot of cash is time limited. I know that our project is the only project that’s being submitted from Cornwall. Every opportunity we’ve got to be supportive, we should.”

Cllr Rotchell said the money to start work has been granted, and the project will go to full council in February/March to be rubber stamped.

Cllr Andy Shaw said that even if the business case is ready to go, it doesn’t guarantee the money. “I’m not going to hold my breath.”

Cllr Claire Hewlett, who was chairing the meeting in the mayor’s absence, asked if there is anything the town council can do, and Cllr Rotchell advised for it to be kept on the agenda, and write to the leader and deputy leader of Cornwall Council.