MOTORISTS using the A38 are facing lengthy evening and overnight detours in a programme of works which began last night.

A section of the road will be closed on week nights, affecting travel between Plymouth and Exeter, from 8pm to 6am, for more than two weeks to allow resurfacing works on the busy highway.

The repairs are being carried out by Highways England on two stretches of the Exeter-bound carriageway – between Chudleigh and Harcombe, and Belvedere to Splatford, meaning traffic will be taken off the A38 at Drumbridges and diverted through Newton Abbot and Kingsteignton on to the A380 northbound.

As part of the same works, the Exeter-bound slip road onto the A38 at Drumbridges will also be closed.

A Highways England spokesman said: ‘The work, weather dependent, is scheduled to be completed on the morning of Thursday, June 13, and clearly signed diversion routes will be in place during the work.

‘Motorists will be diverted via the Drumbridges roundabout to follow the A382 to Newton Abbot and B3195 to Kingsteignton to join the A380 and then rejoin the A38 at Splatford (Kenn).’

Stagecoach, who operate the popular Falcon bus service which normally picks up at the Drumbridges roundabout through the night, have confirmed they will continue to do so during the works.

A Stagecoach spokesman said: ‘The service will continue, though it may be amended.

‘For timetable updates and more information visit www.stagecoachbus.com, then set the location to “Plymouth”.

‘Customers can also can contact us at [email protected] or call 01752 495200.’

The next collection point for passengers is opposite Sowton Park and Ride in Exeter. The Stagecoach spokesman said today: 'Last night was the first night and pick-ups worked okay. Because of the longer journey, pick-up times at Sowton and subsequent stops will be subject to a delay of up to 20 minutes.'

Passengers travelling towards Plymouth will be able to alight at Drumbridges as usual.