Drivers have been warned of new 40mph speed limits set to come into effect on the A38 in Devon as part of a fresh £10million upgrade plan along one of the region’s busiest roads.
The major programme of work will cover several sections of the A38, with the first phase of changes due to begin in September.
National Highways explained that the investment is needed to improve the condition and reliability of the route, which carries up to 24,000 vehicles in each direction every day.
The first project to get underway will focus on the ageing Whitecleave and Mardle viaducts near Buckfastleigh, which require urgent care and will be reduced to a single lane in each direction, with 40mph speed limits in place.
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Work is scheduled to begin on September 2, with completion expected by the end of January 2027.
Engineers will replace deteriorating expansion joints on both viaducts and carry out repairs to the drainage systems.
The existing joints have already required a number of temporary repairs in recent years, and National Highways has now decided that a full refurbishment is needed to provide a longer-term fix.
It said the work would provide a “lasting solution” and reduce the risk of unplanned closures disrupting motorists.
The latest work is intended to improve the long-term reliability of the structures and reduce the need for further emergency repairs.
National Highways will also tackle drainage problems along the A38 between Ivybridge and Lee Mill.
Route Manager Ed Halford said: “It’s essential that we futureproof the viaducts now, to ensure their reliability and to limit the need for future maintenance work, and along with the other works and further renewal plans for the A38, this represents a significant investment in this busy route.
“We appreciate roadworks can impact on people’s journeys, and we’re doing everything we can to minimise disruption by keeping lanes running in each direction while work takes place during the day and by working overnight when traffic levels are at their lowest.
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“In the meantime, we thank drivers and local communities in advance for their patience and advise people to plan ahead and allow extra time for their journeys through the works.”
Drainage will also be an important part of maintaining the road, particularly during periods of heavy rain, when water can damage surfaces and create additional risks for drivers.
Another part of the programme will see trees affected by ash dieback removed from alongside the road. Other trees considered hazardous will also be taken down as part of the work.
Drivers will also see resurfacing work on the eastbound carriageway between the Peartree interchange and Goodstone junction.
The scheme is designed to improve the road surface and help maintain the A38 as a dependable route for local traffic and long-distance journeys.
An additional project will upgrade electronic signage on overhead gantries at Kennford.
Motorists are being urged to allow extra time for journeys when work is taking place and to follow temporary signs and speed restrictions.
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