A38 Saltash Tunnel technology upgrade

The Saltash Tunnel in Cornwall provides a key link between Plymouth and South-East Cornwall. We’re carrying out an extensive programme of work to update the technology in and around the tunnel to keep journeys safe and reliable, and reduce the risk of unplanned closures.

Start date Autumn 2024

End date Autumn 2025

Cost

Latest updates

02 September 2024

Work to start later this year

We’re working with local stakeholders and our construction partners to refine our delivery plan for these essential renewals.

The feedback we’ve gathered is helping to shape how we deliver this complex and extensive programme of work, while minimising the impact on the local community and everyone who uses the tunnel.

We’ll be completing our work in phases using a mix of lane and full closures – these will be communicated well in advance.

More information will be available here soon.

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

See more updates

Project information

The tunnel and its 'reversible' lane, which allows traffic to travel in either direction depending on the time of day or conditions, rely on specialised technology to operate and keep drivers safe.

The current tunnel control system is approaching the end of its life. We’re replacing and upgrading the system to keep everyone using the tunnel safe, provide more reliable journeys and reduce the risk of unplanned closures.

Our work includes:

installing new LED lighting
modernising the power cables and equipment that were installed when the tunnel was constructed. This includes the cabinets and the ducts and covers to improve access in the future.
installing new signs to advise drivers of current conditions
replacing air quality monitors
upgrading the tunnel ventilation system
replacing the existing ‘wig-wag’ crossing with traffic lights that will stop traffic in emergencies, and open the diversion route

Once complete, these improvements will benefit road users and the local community for many years to come.

We’re moving some of the equipment outside of the tunnel to provide easier access for future maintenance and repairs. This will reduce the need for closures that impact on journeys and the local community.

We’re also installing new signs to advise drivers of current conditions to help with journey planning.

And if we do need to close the tunnel in an emergency, new traffic lights and automatic barriers will help keep everyone safe and get drivers diverted quickly.