Full News Report

21st August 2026

National Highways: A38 Saltash Tunnel technology upgrade - upcoming works

We’re continuing our extensive programme of work to update the technology in and around Saltash Tunnel to keep journeys safe and reliable, and reduce the risk of unplanned closures.

We’re about to install the last two new electronic variable messaging signs on the westbound A38, east of the Tamar Bridge roundabout.

Once installed, the 50mph speed limit - currently in place on a short stretch of the westbound A38 before the bridge - will permanently change to 60mph.

Upcoming works

We’ll be working overnight (8pm – 6am) from Tuesday 18 August until Friday 21 August.

How we’ll work

To enable our teams to work safely, the westbound A38 will be closed overnight from St Budeaux junction to the Tamar Bridge roundabout.

Well signed diversions will be in place via St Budeaux Bypass, Wolseley Road and Pemros Road. Please note that the bus gate at the top of Pemros Road will not operate at these times, with general traffic diverted via this route.

The road will be open as usual during the day and the bus gate will be enforced outside of the above closure times.

Please plan ahead and allow extra time for your journey. Dates may change at short notice due to weather or operational reasons.

Find the latest road closure information on our daily closures page.

More information on our scheme, please visit our dedicated webpage.

Help us to spread the word

Please help us by sharing this update. Please share this message with your connections and network, as well as on your own channels.

Any questions?

Please note: all enquiries regarding the scheme should be directed to National Highways, and not to Tamar Crossings which is independently owned and operated by Cornwall Council and Plymouth City Council.

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

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National Highways Limited | General enquiries: 0300 123 5000 |National Traffic Operations Centre, 3 Ridgeway, Quinton Business Park, Birmingham B32 1AF | https://nationalhighways.co.uk | info@nationalhighways.co.uk

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