Sheryll Murray MP yesterday officially cut the ribbon on the long needed footbridge across the A38 at Carkeel with children from Coopers Tree Nursery School.
Sheryll explained, “I was pleased to officially open the new Footbridge across the A38 at Carkeel. I would like to thank the children from Cooper Trees nursery school for helping me to cut the ribbon. We were then joined by Mayor and Mayoress of Saltash, Cllr Bill and Mrs Jean Phillips along with Cornwall Councillor Joe Ellison and other Cornwall Councillors to walk across the new Bridge.
“Saltash Town Councillors including my dear friends Cllrs Sue Hooper, Gloria Challen and David Yates, Peter Ryeland representing Saltash Chamber of Commerce, Representatives from Waitrose, Highways England, Cormac and Kier who designed the Bridge) all braved the heavy rain which did not dampen the Celebration of the delivery of this longstanding and much needed Community facility.
“The Footbridge was first brought to my attention after my election in May 2010 by local resident Peter Clements who had lobbied for this safe crossing of the busy A38 Trunk Road for many years. Agreeing with this clear need I have been asking for the bridge for a long time from former Minister of State for Transport Theresa Villiers and the current Secretary of State for Transport, Patrick McLoughlin. I met both in Cornwall at different times emphasising the need for this bridge. I am delighted that the Secretary of State agreed to fund this Foot Bridge as part of the wider project to improve traffic flow on the A38.
“I would like to pay tribute to Highways England who have now almost completed their part of the Carkeel Roundabout project although some work on the A388 is still to be completed. This part of the operation is being undertaken by the local Highways Authority, Cornwall Council, and the original plan was to ensure both sets of work were carried out within the same timescale. Sadly, I understand that the Cornwall Council work has been delayed and have now been informed it is envisaged to start by January 2016. I will request updates from Cornwall Council and inform readers of any changes.
“Once the Council have completed their road works on the Saltash to Callington road, traffic lights will be operational on the Roundabout to ensure easier traffic flow from all junctions.”
ENDS
Contact: Sheryll Murray MP 01579 344428
Pictured: Sheryll at the bridge opening