One Year of Disruption Ahead as Saltash Tunnel Technology Gets a Upgrade

Essential Works Will Include Lane Closures and Speed Restrictions

A significant technology upgrade for the Saltash Tunnel is scheduled to begin in late November 2024, causing potential disruption for commuters and residents. National Highways has announced the start of a major programme of work designed to modernise the technology in and around the tunnel, which connects Plymouth and South-East Cornwall.

Tunnel Technology Upgrade Details

The extensive project aims to enhance safety, provide more reliable journeys, and minimise the risk of unplanned closures. The current control system, which allows the tunnel’s ‘reversible’ lane to operate safely, is nearing the end of its life and will be replaced with a new, upgraded system. The work is expected to continue through to Autumn 2025.

The upgrades will include:

• Installation of new LED lighting
• Modernisation of power cables and equipment installed when the tunnel was first built
• Replacement of air quality monitors and the tunnel ventilation system
• New signage to inform drivers of current conditions
• Installation of automatic barriers and traffic lights to manage traffic flow in emergencies

Impact on Local Traffic

The project will be carried out in phases, starting with weeknight closures of the tunnel. Speed restrictions and narrow lanes will be introduced westbound between St Budeaux and the Tamar Bridge from early 2025. In early to mid-2025, the current control system will be decommissioned, leading to a single lane in each direction for A38 traffic through the tunnel.

The Tamar Bridge will maintain its four lanes, but one lane will be dedicated to Saltash Town traffic only in the westbound direction, while the eastbound cantilever will remain open for local and ‘tag only’ traffic.

Local Engagement

Saltash Town Council is actively engaging with stakeholders and collaborating with National Highways to minimise the impact on the community. They encourage residents and commuters to direct any questions or concerns to the National Highways Contact Centre on 0300 123 5000, available 24/7, or by emailing info@nationalhighways.co.uk.

Please note that all enquiries should be directed to National Highways and not to Tamar Bridge, which is independently operated by Cornwall Council and Plymouth City Councils.

Looking Ahead

Once complete, these upgrades are expected to benefit both road users and the local community for many years to come by providing safer and more efficient travel through the tunnel.

For more information and the latest updates on the project, visit the National Highways project page.