Road improvements were made at the two headlands as part of job creation schemes in the 1930s. Both were pierced by tunnels and an impressive viaduct replaced the crumbling road at Penyclip.

The increase in road traffic from the 1950s onwards led to ambitious plans being drawn up to make further improvements. Additional tunnels were constructed at both headlands and new A55 was rerouted to avoid the town centre and adjoining streets.

This major work carried out from the late 1980s is now believed to have been of little benefit to Penmaenmawr economically although it is recognised that it is now easier to travel in and out of the town.