Improvement work to begin on Barnstaple roundabout

Improvement work on Bishops Tawton Roundabout in Barnstaple is set to begin on Monday, 3 March, Devon County Council has confirmed.

The project will include the development of additional lanes to increase the roundabout's capacity. 

It will also improve pedestrian and cycle links between Bishops Tawton and Barnstaple, along with the installation of a signal-controlled pedestrian crossing.

The 18-week scheme will be carried out by Cormac on behalf of Devon County Council and is expected to be completed in July.

To minimise traffic disruption, a single-lane approach to each arm of the roundabout will be maintained from 7am to 7pm. 

Manual traffic lights may be used during occasional off-hours work to manage flow.

This project forms part of the wider £67 million North Devon Link Road improvement scheme, which has been supported by £60 million in funding from the Department for Transport (DfT). 

Previous work as part of the scheme included the upgrades to the A39 Westleigh Junction in July 2021 and the A39 Buckleigh Road Junction in July 2022. 

The main section of the A361 between South Molton and Portmore roundabout was completed by contractor Griffiths at the end of 2024.

Councillor Andrea Davis, Deputy Leader of Devon County Council and Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Environment and Transport, said: “This is the latest roundabout to undergo improvements as part of the overall upgrade to the Link Road. These enhancements will not only reduce congestion but will also improve safety and increase the viability of sustainable transport options, such as walking and cycling.”

Councillor Caroline Leaver, County Councillor for Barnstaple South, welcomed the improvements, stating: “The work at Bishops Tawton roundabout will greatly improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists, providing a more practical route between the village and Newport. This is a vital link for children attending Park School, offering parents greater confidence in allowing their children to walk to school without needing to drive.”

Councillor Paul Henderson, County Councillor for Chulmleigh and Landkey, added: “I’m delighted that this much-needed upgrade is finally set to progress. Despite challenging budgetary conditions, the residents of Bishops Tawton and those using the A377 will benefit from these improvements, which have been long overdue.”