Motorists across the southwest have been warned to expect significant delays from today after new 20mph speed limits came into effect.
The restriction implemented by Cornwall Council affects Clodgey Lane and the access road to the former Flambards theme park, key roads used by commuters, local residents, and visitors alike.
The temporary speed limit will remain in force for approximately eight months, with authorities anticipating its removal by July 7, 2026.
The measure represents one of the longest-lasting traffic management schemes in recent memory for the area, highlighting the scale of the roadworks and infrastructure improvements planned for this section of the town’s network.
The 20mph restriction applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, meaning drivers must remain constantly aware of the reduced limit, whether travelling during rush hour, late at night, or early in the morning.
It covers a 475-metre stretch of Clodgey Lane and a 92-metre section of the access route leading to the former Flambards site.
Authorities explained that precise measurements reflect the extent of the work, which will significantly impact traffic flow along this well-used corridor.
The council stated that the restriction is necessary to protect both construction workers and members of the public during the extended period of roadworks.
Drivers have been warned that the restrictions will be in place 24 hours a day
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The project involves a comprehensive programme of resurfacing and construction activity, including improvements to the main carriageway and the junction where vehicles access the former leisure attraction site.
In a formal statement, the council said: “The Order is needed because works are being executed on or near the road to carry out construction and surfacing works, ensuring the safety of workers and the public during this extended period of activity.”
The legal framework for such measures allows for a maximum initial period of 18 months, though the council expects the works to be completed well before this deadline.
Local residents and businesses near Clodgey Lane have been advised to plan for sustained disruption over the coming months.
The mandatory 20mph speed limit hopes to protect road workers from speeding cars
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GETTYTraffic patterns will be altered throughout the area and anyone using the former Flambards access may experience delays or changes to normal routes during the roadworks.
With a combination of construction vehicles, lane closures and resurfacing activities expected over several months, adherence to the 20mph limit will be critical for safety.
Authorities said that even a small lapse in compliance could put both workers and the public at risk, particularly in areas with heavy pedestrian or vehicle movement.
This extended traffic management scheme is part of a wider effort to upgrade local infrastructure and improve road safety.
Officials hope that, once completed, the works will result in smoother traffic flow, safer junctions, and a more reliable route for local drivers and visitors alike.
The 20mph speed limit will be in place until July 2026
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PAFor those seeking further information, the council has published full details of the scheme on its dedicated roadworks webpage.
Residents, commuters, and businesses are encouraged to review the information and plan journeys accordingly to avoid unnecessary delays.
While the project will disrupt for several months, authorities stress that it is necessary to deliver long-term improvements.
The combination of continuous enforcement, comprehensive construction activity and a lengthy timeline makes this one of the most significant temporary speed restriction programmes in Cornwall in recent years.