Saltash Tunnel on A38 Scheduled for £25m Electrical System Overhaul

National Highways has announced a significant upgrade for the lighting and electrical systems within the Saltash tunnel, located on the A38 connecting Cornwall and Plymouth, which is scheduled to take place over the coming year. According to project officials, this £25 million initiative will involve the refurbishment of the electrical infrastructure, traffic control mechanisms, and lighting within the 36-year-old tunnel. This vital passage is utilized by approximately 40,000 vehicles daily, many of which also traverse the Tamar Bridge. They further indicated that while the primary construction efforts are slated for two distinct phases – one in the upcoming new year and another next summer – initial survey work and minor repairs are set to commence within the next fortnight. National Highways confirmed that the December work will occur during overnight hours, necessitating traffic diversions through the B3271 and North Road. Ian Ellis, representing National Highways, stated that frequent users of the tunnel would “recognise the overheard lane control signs,” which indicate the correct lane for drivers. He elaborated, “this is part of the technology that we’re going to upgrading.” Concurrently, a £1.3 million initiative to enhance drainage on the A38, situated near Notter Bridge just outside Saltash, is expected to conclude by Christmas, according to highways authorities.