DRIVERS using a route linking South East Cornwall and West Devon are facing a 25-mile diversion for much of the week from today (Monday) after concerns over the stability of a retaining wall have forced a road closure.
Motorists using the A390 between Callington, Gunnislake and Tavistock have already been facing roadworks with traffic lights and a convoy system in operation due to resurfacing being carried out on the highway where it passes Kit Hill.
Now, however, the road has been completely closed between the centre of Gunnislake and Newbridge over the River Tamar after investigative work found that a retaining wall at Rosemary Cottage, on Newbridge Hill, was showing signs of movement and deterioration. Cormac says it has therefore been forced to take immediate action to safeguard the public and yellow warning signs alerting the public to the forthcoming closure have been in place for some days.
The road closure will last anything from three to 10 days depending on how long it takes for Cormac to reduce the height of the retaining wall and work the land behind it until it is at a safe angle.
As soon as it is safe to do so, the reduced wall will be supported with concrete blocks and the road will be reopened as a single carriageway controlled by traffic lights until such time as the safety work has been completed.
In the meantime, during the time that Newbridge Hill is completely closed to vehicles, official advice to motorists heading for Tavistock is that they must take a 25-mile diversionary route along the A388 through Callington and Treburley, then via the B3362 across Greystones Bridge and continue through Milton Abbot to reach Tavistock either by the direct route past the Blacksmiths Arms and Old Launceston Road or by rejoining the A390 at Gulworthy.
Anyone wanting further details about the road closure can call 0300 1234 222 or email [email protected]