A BLOCKADE in Launceston which has been in place for nearly three years is finally set to be removed.

In January 2023, Race Hill in Launceston was forced to close after a wall along the stretch began to collapse. For a period, the road was completely closed to drivers before, to the appreciation of residents, the stretch was finally reopened. However, despite the reopening, Race Hill was adorned with fencing and sand bags which were propping the wall up and preventing it from further falling into the road, allowing drivers to continue using the route.

Despite Corserv, an arms-length organisation run by Cornwall Council responsible for the operation of Cormac, stating at the time that following the completion of a structural survey, the organisation aimed to start removing the debris within a week and have the road reopened within seven days, the makeshift precautions have remained in place ever since.

The works have reduced the width of the road, limiting traffic movement and often causing a build up of cars, much to the dissatisfaction of residents.

However, this week, Cornwall councillor for Launceston South, Cllr Damon Dennis has confirmed that works to remove the fencing and bags and repair the wall are finally set to get underway.

Speaking to the Post, Cllr Dennis explained: “I can confirm that the county council and the owner of the retaining wall on Race Hill have agreed a timeline for progressing this matter.

“A structural engineer’s report is currently being prepared and is expected after Christmas. The necessary remedial works will then be undertaken in accordance with the report’s findings.

“I am confident that this progress will come as a considerable relief to local residents, who have had to endure the presence of the yellow dumpy bags on the road for too long.”