There’s a call for the A38 to be upgraded between Exeter and Bodmin including through the South Hams.

Plymouth City Councillor and Cabinet Member for Transport and Highways Jonathan Drean has written to the city’s MP’s asking for their support.

Councillor Drean said: “I have written to and asked our Plymouth MPs to lobby for the A38 between Bodmin and Exeter to be included as a priority for investment in the Government’s forthcoming third Road Investment Strategy (RIS3).

Plymouth supports investment for the whole of the A38 from Bodmin to Exeter to secure a high quality and resilient connection to the M5/M4 Corridor which is able to provide more reliable journey times.” 

The aim is to bring about the modernisation of the A38 to motorway standard to ensure the route reflects its status as a major trunk road.

Councillor Drean said: “This is consistent with our significant growth ambitions including our proposed Freezone status, not to mention our industry, dockyard and ferry port.”

They are seeking a road network that supports the economy and improves road safety for this and future generations.

He added: “ The A38 falls significantly short of what is required to effectively move people and freight into, around and out of the South West. Capacity and journey times are significantly compromised.

 This hinders existing businesses, causing practical day to day issues and holds back  expansion. It also deters inward investment, as businesses will only relocate to the South West and balance the UK economy regionally if they can transport their goods quickly and efficiently. If we are to grow back better we need the ensure this major road is fit and safe for purpose.”