INVESTMENT plans designed to improve the lives of residents across Cornwall were approved when the full council met at New County Hall in Truro recently, including a £2.25-million investment into the construction of new pedestrian bridges at Launceston.

The project in Launceston will see the pavement being taken away on the Kensey bridge at Newport and will provide two new pedestrian bridges; one by the bridge and another down the river to provide access from the Ridgegrove estate. This will allow residents to access Newport without having to negotiate their way down Dutson road and around White Horse corner. The other will see the pavement on the bridge removed and the road widened to improve the fluidity of traffic coming in and out of the town, whilst placing an additional footpath parallel to the bridge.

This is in an attempt to improve the air quality around Newport and St Thomas road, which was dubbed as one of the worst in the South West, in an investigation carried out by environmental group, Friends of the Earth at the start of March.

The project will also provide an open space in the Ridgegrove area near the river.

Launceston town councillors have been working on this project for the last two years and there are still planning permissions and environmental permits that are needed to gain before the work can begin. However, Leader of Cornwall Council and Cornwall Councillor for Launceston North and North Petherwin assured that the council will be committed until the project becomes reality. He said: “It is really important for the town and the Launceston Cornwall Councillors Gemma Massey, Jade Farrington and myself. We will continue to work to ensure this happens and benefits the town and wider area.”

Cllr Paynter continued: “I am delighted that the money for two pedestrian bridges and open space has been confirmed. It will ease congestion at Newport and give a safer crossing for residents on the north side of the town. This is fantastic for Launceston and will make a real difference.”

Other projects include the creation of a multi-use coastal trail at Penzance, and sewerage scheme required at the new West Carclaze Garden Village near St Austell and for investment into essential repairs at schools across Cornwall.

Summarising the £26.4-million investment programme, councillor Julian German, deputy leader of Cornwall Council, said: “These plans meet the council’s key priorities; a healthy Cornwall, homes for Cornwall, a green and prosperous Cornwall, and connecting Cornwall.

“This investment will enhance service provision, and help to improve the lives of the residents of Cornwall.”

An additional £2.4-million investment into regeneration schemes for South East Cornwall was also on the agenda. The money will be used to deliver cycling and walking routes as part of a larger £6.4m investment in the area.

Cllr Paynter added: “These investment plans focus on the key areas for this administration, and will see improvements to our cycling network, our roads and our schools.

“It is a real statement of intent, we are getting on with the business of improving our resident’s lives, while remaining responsible with our finances.”