National Highways responds to rising flooding issues reported on A30 at Whiddon Down

National Highways says it is monitoring the A30 at Whiddon Down and has carried out recent drainage work, after concerns from local drivers about flooding and standing water on the route.

Residents on social media said that the stretch of road near Okehampton has become increasingly prone to surface water during heavy rain. 

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Several described the area as a “crash hotspot”, saying vehicles have struggled with aquaplaning in recent weeks.

Some also reported seeing large patches of water appear quickly during storms, raising worries about safety and the need for better drainage along the road. 

When approached for comment, National Highways told The Moorlander its teams were aware of the issue and were continuing to inspect and maintain the road.

Jack Mason, South West Road Safety Manager for National Highways, said:

“We have a robust inspection and maintenance plan in place for our roads, including the inspection and clearance of gullies ahead of forecasted rain, and working with our police and local authority partners, we are constantly monitoring this section of the A30.”

He confirmed that drainage improvements have already taken place this year and more are due shortly.

“We’ve carried out a number of drainage improvements this year, as recently as October, and will be carrying out further maintenance work to clear filter drains on the eastbound carriageway before Christmas,” he said.

National Highways also pointed to a wider plan to improve drainage across the South West over the next few years.

“Over the next five years, we will be investing £38 million in drainage improvements across the South West, and in the meantime, with ground water levels considerably higher than what we have seen previously, we always advise people to be aware of the potential for surface water and to drive to the conditions.”

Although some drivers have reported recent incidents of aquaplaning, National Highways did not comment on any specific collision data. 

The organisation said it will continue to assess the A30 with its partners and carry out further work when needed.

Local motorists say they hope the next round of drainage maintenance will reduce the risk of sudden surface water, particularly during the winter months when storms are common across Dartmoor and the surrounding area.