A39 crossing Penryn death of pedestrian crossing campaign

On Monday (July 11) a number of interested parties met with Helen Worthington the organiser of a petition to get a proper crossing on the A39 from Mabe to the Tremough Campus in Penryn.

The petition for a safer crossing closed with 5,205 signatures last week, after just one week.

Organiser Helen Worthington says it has been acknowledged by Cornwall Council, but it has said the issue cannot be discussed at full council because it is a local matter.

The petition followed the tragic death on June 24 of Eka Schofield, 33, from Penryn. She died following a collision involving a Volkswagen van at around 9.35am at the A39 crossing.

Ekaterina Schofield with her husband Zev. Picture Eden McCann/GoFundMe

The meeting was to discuss and agree the priorities to move one step closer to the campaign goal of a safer crossing for all.

Present at the meeting were Mabe Cornwall councillor John Bastin and Mabe parish chair and councillors.

There were representatives from the office of George Eustice, MP for the area, Mabe Youth & Community Project, Falmouth University and University of Exeter, Penryn Town Council, Penryn College and Falmouth/Penryn & Area Walking and Cycling Campaign.

The crossing on A39

The group says it is also keeping Devon & Cornwall Police informed of developments.

"All those present expressed their unwavering and unanimous support of the campaign, and the need to implement changes that are meaningful and respond to the gravity of the situation: that being the loss of a precious life, as well as the risk present to others in the future," said Helen Worthington.

"It is clear the site of the crossing has changed since it was originally installed, and usage by pedestrians and cyclists is only likely to continue to increase.

"What is required now is a collective effort to prepare and present a substantial, evidence-based case for changes to those who have the power to make the necessary decisions, and the resource to make it happen.

"As you can imagine, this is not entirely straightforward, and requires further research and technical work by the group, including gathering accurate data on usage of the crossing as well as any known restrictions on the route, and viable measures that could be implemented.

"I have been incredibly encouraged and uplifted by the joint resolve and commitment by those now involved to do the right thing. The importance of keeping momentum to reach the next stage is utmost in our minds.

"We are working hard now to progress these plans with a view to meeting again in a few weeks, at which point we hope to be in a position to prepare a formal statement. Between now and then, you may spot some of the team capturing insights and views from the community."

She says any key updates will continue to be posted on a newly created Facebook page Mabe-Tremough A39 Pedestrian Crossing.

Helen says the county council has acknowledged the strength of community support for the campaign, but says it cannot yet comment on the safety of the crossing itself.

"They advised that they await the outcome of the current investigation into last week's fatal accident, and the subsequent review by the Coroner's court," said Helen.