Airport road improvements in final phase

The £1.4 million widening scheme on the access road to Exeter International Airport is reaching its final phase and is on schedule to be completed by the end of next month.

The current temporary one-way system on the B3184, which will improve access to the airport and adjacent Airport Business Park, will come to an end on Friday 20 February.

During the last week of the one way system, the road will be closed overnight between 9pm and 5am from Monday (16 February) to Friday 20 February to enable drainage work and footpath reconstruction to be carried out safely.

Between Monday 23 February through to the end of the scheme, three-way temporary traffic lights will be required during the daytime.

Surfacing will be completed during further overnight closures from 8pm to 5am between Thursday 5 March and Friday 20 March, although the closures will be lifted at weekends.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highway Management, said: “Every effort is being made to minimise disruption, but any highway scheme of this size will have an impact on local traffic. The safety of the travelling public and workforce are of paramount importance, which is why the overnight road closures will be needed to carry out the surfacing on this improved stretch of road.”

Councillor Andrew Leadbetter, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Economy and Growth, said: “We’re entering the final phase of this project and it’s really taking shape. When it is complete we will have a much improved road which will benefit the local community as well as being fit for purpose as the gateway to Exeter International Airport and the Business Park.”

Councillor Peter Bowden, local County Councillor for Broadclyst and Whimple, said: “The completion of this exceptional task will be welcomed. Residents will be pleased with the final result and the wider community will appreciate the upgraded access to our premier regional airport.”

The scheme is being funded by the Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) Regional Growth Fund.

Work is being carried out by South West Highways (SWH Ltd) who have informed local businesses, the Parish Council, and affected residents.