March 2026 update

Testing of overhead lane signals begins

We’re continuing our extensive programme of works to update the technology in and around Saltash Tunnel.

The new lane control system represents a significant upgrade to tunnel safety. This modern system will improve how we manage traffic safely through the tunnel and respond to incidents.

Upgrading technology around an operational tunnel is complex work that must meet strict safety standards. The new system is currently undergoing rigorous safety testing to ensure it’s working as it should.

This week, the team has started testing the new overhead lane signals. When testing is taking place, the signals will display a range of different colour dots in sequence including green, red and white.

While we continue with the installation and testing of the new technology, the current traffic management will remain in place.

Please continue to stay in lane, follow the current traffic management and not the overhead signals.

When testing is in progress, road users will be further reminded to stay in lane via our electronic signage boards displaying: ‘Testing overhead signals, stay in lane’.

Testing will mainly take place weeknights (Monday – Friday, 8pm – 6am).

Coming up:

The next phase of testing will involve the signals displaying the lane control signals of red crosses and green arrows. We will inform you in advance of this happening. Again, traffic management will remain in place during this phase. Road users will again need to stay in lane, follow the traffic management and not the overhead signals.

We expect testing to be completed and the tidal flow lane control system switched on later in the Spring. The scheme will fully complete later in 2026.

More information on our scheme: https://nationalhighways.co.uk/our-roads/south-west/a38-saltash-tunnel-technology-upgrade/

A38 westbound: Manadon to St Budeaux overnight resurfacing works

Some other works taking place nearby include resurfacing the A38 westbound carriageway between Manadon and St Budeaux.

During the day and at the weekend the road will be open as usual.

The following westbound closures will be in place weeknights (8pm – 6am):

• Manadon to Weston Mill Junction: Tuesday 7 April and Wednesday 8 April
• Manadon to St Budeaux: Thursday 9 April – Monday 13 April
• Manadon to Weston Mill Junction: Tuesday 14 April – Thursday 16 April
• Manadon to St Budeaux: Friday 17 April – Friday 24 April

Well signed diversion routes will be in place via the A38, A386 and Crownhill Road.

There will also be an eastbound closure from St Budeaux to Manadon on Monday 27 April to undertake some surveys. Diversions will be in place via the A38, Crownhill Road and A386.

Please plan ahead and allow extra time for your journeys.

Dates may change at short notice due to poor weather conditions or operational reasons. If we’re unable to complete our work as planned, we may need to continue beyond the dates stated above.

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 Any questions?  

 You can view our dedicated webpage on the scheme, here.

 If you have any queries or comments about the work, or would like further information please contact National Highways Customer Contact Centre on 0300 123 5000 or by email: info@nationalhighways.co.uk