A MAJOR £400,000 roadwork scheme is due to start next week on the A3072 between Bow and Copplestone.

The project, which is scheduled to take six weeks, is due to start on Monday, July 13.

As well as essential reconstruction of large sections of the road, repairs will also be carried out to existing drainage pipes on Beers Hill.

Temporary traffic lights will be used during the first two weeks of the scheme. However, to undertake the reconstruction work in a safe manner, for both the public and workforce, Devon County Council says it will be necessary to close the road temporarily to through traffic for a maximum of four weeks from Monday to Friday between July 27 and August 21 inclusive.

No works will be undertaken during the weekends when the road will be open to traffic as usual.

The section of road to be closed lies between the junction of the A377 and A3072, just west of Copplestone and Iter Cross to the east of Bow.

Businesses will be open as usual and access to businesses and properties located within the closure area, as well as emergency vehicles, will be maintained at all times.

Rockbeare based Aggregate Industries Ltd, who will carry out the work, will be available to direct vehicles where necessary.

During the closure a diversion route will be signposted via the A3124, Winkleigh, B3220, A377 and vice versa.

Devon County Council says it is recognised that many locals will use the side roads which are mainly single track and motorists are asked to take special care if using these routes as a shortcut.

When the road is closed Stagecoach will be operating a shuttle bus and a taxi service to maintain access to bus service numbers 51 and 315

For further details please contact Devon County Council Transport Co-ordination Services on 01392 382905.