RESOLUTION on a dispute over access to a bus stop in a North Cornwall town nears closer after a series of ‘productive’ meetings.

Padstow Town Council hosted a spirited meeting of its full council on Tuesday, October 29, where the central point of interest was the next steps after its announced decision to terminate access to a bus stop on land it owns at the former railway station in the town was met with outcry and protests.

It had terminated access to the bus stop by operators citing ‘safety concerns’, with bus operator Go Cornwall, members of the public, Cornwall Council and the area’s RMT trade union representative stating that its removal would lead to passengers having to walk a large hill to access the next nearest stop.

However, it has now been resolved that instead of terminating the access as planned in November, the council will extend permission for buses to use the facility to April 2025 in order to allow time for a permanent resolution to the issue to be found.

The decision comes days after the intervention of the MP for North Cornwall, Ben Maguire, who joined in a round-table meeting with himself and representatives of Padstow Town Council, Cornwall Council and Go Cornwall Bus.

After his intervention, Ben Maguire, the MP for North Cornwall had said: “It was a very constructive meeting where all sides recognised the importance of the stop to locals and tourists, and all agreed that a collaborative approach would be needed to find a workable solution to the issue.

“As a direct result of the meeting, a formal letter of intent will be sent to the Town Council to reassure them all interested parties will work at pace to put in place a solution that addresses both their concerns and the needs of the local people.”

The news of the progress has been welcomed by those who were opposed to the decision.

Barry West, the RMT representative said: “It’s a good outcome for everyone - for now. It’s a partial U-turn from the town council. It’s a good outcome for everyone and hopefully the bus companies, Cornwall Council and Padstow Town Council will now work together to sort it out.”

Richard Stevens, managing director of Go Cornwall said: "This extension (until April 2025) will enable us to undertake the necessary actions in collaboration with Padstow Town Council for achieving a mutually satisfactory outcome.

"In the meantime, regular meetings of this working party will be held to ensure timely progress.

"We feel that this approach represents a win-win for all parties. By working together, we can ensure that Padstow continues to benefit from accessible bus services while prioritising public safety - a goal that is of paramount importance to each of us."