Miles of new cabling installed in Saltash Tunnel

National Highways said the scheme will see 31 miles of new cabling installed

The process to modernise the Saltash Tunnel has now reached the main phase of technology work.

National Highways said the scheme will see 31 miles (49.8km) of new cabling installed within and around the 410-metre tunnel.

There has already been installation of over 20 miles of cabling through the tunnel, installation of new internal tunnel gantries, the replacement of existing sensors to improve air quality monitoring and more.

Julian Mitchell, National Highways tunnel manager, said: "This generational, £25m upgrade is a complex operation, overhauling outdated systems, and will deliver major safety, traffic flow and air quality benefits for many years to come."

Mr Mitchell said: "It's difficult to work safely within and around the structure without closing it overnight and we thank people for their patience while we continue towards completion of the scheme.

"We're doing everything we can to minimise disruption for local communities, and users of the tunnel and Tamar Bridge, the work is planned carefully with our partners and we are keeping all stakeholders informed in the meantime."

National Highways said further work would take place next year, including some overnight closures, when the system is operational.