Essential safety repairs will get underway on the A3079 near Okehampton next week

Around 11 miles (18km) of the road from Fowley Cross to Cookworthy Farm, via Halwill Junction, will be resurfaced, starting from Monday 6 April.

The seven-week scheme will be carried out using a series of day-time closures with signed diversions in place. Some overnight work may be needed when temporary traffic lights will be used.

All of the work will be undertaken Monday to Friday, except Good Friday (10 April) and Easter Monday (13 April). There will be no weekend working.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highway Management, said:“This work is essential in order to address several safety issues with the current road surface. We have to make sure that road conditions are safe, and it’s key that NHS staff, care workers, emergency services and essential deliveries can travel safely on our roads. Highways staff are being advised to observe social distancing guidelines while carrying out this vital scheme.”

During daytime closures, the signed diversion from Fowley Cross roundabout will be via the A386 to Holsworth Road roundabout and from there take the A386 signed for Hatherleigh. Follow the A386 Narratons Road, through Folly Gate, until Hatherleigh. At Hatherleigh take the left from the A386 to the A3072, signed Holsworthy, via Highhampton to Dunsland Corner. At Dunsland Corner leave the A3072 and take the left to A3079 Cookworthy Farm (and vice versa). Drivers with local knowledge may find alternative routes.

Access will be maintained for emergency vehicles at all times. The scheme is expected to be completed by Tuesday 19 May.