The Saltash tunnel is to close to allow emergency services to carry out a major exercise. The exercise on Sunday – named Saltex 06 – will test responses to a collision in the tunnel involving a number of vehicles and casualties and more than 200 personnel and volunteers. Highways Agency manager Nigel Dyson said: 'In the last few years the Saltash tunnel has undergone significant refurbishment work to upgrade the control and communication systems and improve its visual appearance. 'The Highways Agency and its partners have produced an emergency plan to respond effectively to a major incident in the tunnel aimed at ensuring the safety of users. 'The date and time of Saltex 06 has been chosen carefully to minimise disruption to drivers, local residents and businesses.' Ken Yeo, executive member for public protection at Cornwall County Council, added: 'The Saltash tunnel is a vital gateway to Cornwall and an important transport facility in the county. 'Cornwall County Council is pleased to be helping the Highways Agency and the emergency services with this exercise, so we can be confident we all have rigorous and well-tested plans in place to deal with any emergency.' The tunnel will be closed to traffic from 6pm on Sunday and will re-open before rush hour the following day. Diversion routes will be clearly signed. Members of the public are advised that smoke may be visible coming from the tunnel during the exercise. There will be no public viewing facilities. Taking part in the exercise are the Highways Agency, Cornwall County Council, the police, fire and ambulance services, Raynet volunteers, the bridge committee, Derriford Hospital and the WRVS.
