A389 Reopens After Major Car Fire Blocks Route
Major A-Road Shutdown After Vehicle Fire
Commuters and travellers across mid-Cornwall experienced significant disruption on Saturday afternoon when a vehicle caught fire on the A389 near Washaway, creating a major traffic bottleneck that lasted several hours. The incident occurred at approximately midday near the Croanford turn-off, a critical junction that sits roughly halfway between Wadebridge and Bodmin—two key market towns that serve the heart of Cornwall’s communities.
Both directions of the A389 were closed as emergency services responded to the blaze, with fire crews working to extinguish the flames and make the scene safe. The road remained completely blocked throughout the early afternoon, causing queuing traffic that extended well beyond the immediate incident site. By mid-afternoon, firefighters had brought the situation under control, and the A389 was fully reopened by around 3pm, though traffic continued to ease gradually throughout the remainder of the afternoon.
For many locals and visitors alike, this stretch of the A389 represents a crucial transport link for those travelling between Bodmin and Wadebridge, or heading further towards coastal destinations like Newquay. The prolonged closure highlighted just how heavily this route is depended upon by the community.
Community Impact and Travel Disruption
The unexpected closure created a ripple effect across the region, affecting residents, businesses, and visitors trying to reach popular destinations. People heading to visit Newquay or enjoy activities like Fistral Beach found themselves caught in lengthy delays, whilst local commuters facing unexpected detours experienced frustration during what should have been routine journeys.
Businesses along the route—from shops in Wadebridge to accommodations welcoming tourists—rely on steady traffic flow to serve customers and guests. The several-hour blockage meant cancelled appointments, delayed deliveries, and missed opportunities for hospitality venues offering dog friendly accommodation and pet-friendly experiences throughout the region.
For families planning weekend trips to the coast, the disruption proved particularly disruptive. Parents heading to Fistral Beach for family outings or those with dogs seeking dog on beaches activities found their plans derailed. Those utilising local services, from restaurants to retail outlets, experienced unexpected complications when what should have been short journeys became hour-long ordeals.
The incident underscores how vulnerable our regional transport network is to unexpected events, and how quickly a single incident can cascade into widespread community inconvenience affecting dozens of business operations and hundreds of residents.
What Locals Should Know and Safety Reminders
While the A389 has fully reopened, the incident serves as an important reminder for all road users about vehicle safety and maintenance. Regular checks of your vehicle’s electrical systems, fuel lines, and engine components can help prevent potential fires. If you notice any unusual smells, smoke, or warning lights whilst driving, pull over safely and switch off the engine immediately.
For those regularly commuting between Wadebridge and Bodmin, or travelling onwards to visit Newquay, it’s worth considering backup routes and allowing extra travel time during peak periods. Keep an eye on traffic updates via local news sources and traffic apps before setting out, particularly during busy summer months when visitor numbers increase.
Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service reminds drivers that if you witness a vehicle fire, contact emergency services immediately on 999 and move to a safe distance. Do not attempt to extinguish large vehicle fires yourself, as they can spread rapidly and pose serious danger.
Looking ahead, this incident highlights the value of having alternative routes planned for essential journeys. Whether you’re a regular commuter, a business owner, or someone planning leisure trips to Fistral Beach or other attractions, road awareness and preparation remain vital for safe, stress-free travel throughout our community.
Source: A-road blocked as car goes up in flames
