A representative from Western Power Distribution (WPD) has confirmed that Falmouth’s cobbles will be replaced after extensive works in the town centre are completed.

Jon Nesbitt, distribution manager for WPD, confirmed the news at a Falmouth Town Council meeting on Monday.

Town manager Richard Gates added that there will be free parking in the town on Fridays and Saturdays while the next two stages of construction are carried out between January and April.

The issue of whether or not to replace the cobbles has divided the town in the past, with those against saying that they present a hazard for pedestrians, and those in favour saying that they add an aesthetic element to the town centre and help to control traffic.

Regarding the impact that excavation works had on businesses, Mr Nesbitt said: “I think last year it worked pretty well. Businesses seemed to do well, we have had no feedback that they haven’t.”

The first stage of the work to be carried out in 2019 will involve reconnecting properties on Market Street to the new cabling and relaying the cobbles, whilst the second stage will involve excavating Church Street.

Councillor for Boslowick ward Steve Eva said: “I think last year it worked quite well. As someone who wants to see the town pedestrianised, it was nice.”

Fellow Boslowick member Roger Bonney spoke about how when the cobbles were originally put in, the contractor was asked to install them unevenly in order to dissuade motorists from driving too fast through the town centre.