Kemp Supports Landmark Link Road Connecting St Austell to the A30

A vital new transport link connecting St Austell to the A30 has officially opened, marking a major milestone in Cornwall’s infrastructure development. The £87 million, 3.9-mile (6.3km) single carriageway road now links the A391 at Singlerose Roundabout in Stenalees with the A30 at Victoria, easing congestion, and opening up new opportunities for communities across mid-Cornwall.

Kemp played a crucial role in the delivery of this ambitious project, having completed the detailed topographic survey of the route during the early planning and design phases. Kemp’s involvement began in the summer of 2017, with preliminary surveys undertaken in challenging terrain. The final ground model was delivered in early 2019, providing a vital foundation for the engineering and design teams to progress with confidence.

Working closely with the consulting engineers and Cornwall Council, Kemp delivered high-accuracy survey data across the full route, including complex terrain through the heart of Cornwall’s historic Clay Country. The survey data helped inform the optimal alignment of the road, shape new junction layouts, and ensure integration with the wider landscape.

Scott Kemp, Managing Director of Kemp Engineering, reflected on the long-standing nature of the project:

“We actually surveyed an alternative route for this link road back in 2005. That route was a challenge, but this route, whilst no less demanding, benefited from a collaborative client who worked closely with us to meet key milestones. That spirit of partnership bodes well for the contractor now delivering the scheme on the ground.”

The new road is expected to alleviate traffic pressure on local routes, improve access to and from St Austell, and unlock opportunities for housing, regeneration, and employment. Alongside the main carriageway, the project has delivered over 5.5 miles (8.9km) of off-road walking, cycling, and horse-riding paths, along with a “green corridor” of wildflowers, heathland, and new tree planting to support local biodiversity.

With government funding of £78.5m and an additional £6.4m from Cornwall Council, the link road represents one of the region’s most significant infrastructure investments in recent years. Work began in summer 2022 and has now culminated in a new, safer, and more sustainable route for local communities.

Kemp’s early-stage survey work, high-quality data output, and ability to adapt to evolving requirements ensured a smooth transition from planning to delivery. The project is a strong example of the value of detailed ground information and close collaboration between surveyors, designers, and clients.

Kemp is proud to have played a part in this transformative project and remains committed to supporting the future of infrastructure development across Cornwall and the South West.