National Highways issues travel advice ahead of Devon County Show

National Highways has issued a travel advisory ahead of the upcoming Devon County Show at Westpoint Arena near Exeter. 

The event, running from May 16 to May 18, is expected to draw large crowds, leading to increased traffic on several key routes.

Drivers using the M5 near Exeter, particularly around junctions 29 and 30, the A30 east and west of Exeter, and the A38 south of Exeter, should plan their journeys accordingly. 

Past shows have seen congestion, especially during the morning rush hours.

To manage traffic flow, specific diversion routes will be in place. 

M5 traffic will be directed to junction 30, while A30 westbound traffic will exit at the Daisy Mount junction.

John Ingram, South West Network Planner for National Highways, said: “We’re working closely with our partners at Devon County Council and Devon and Cornwall Police to give drivers as much advice as possible to help them plan their journeys during this busy period, and our traffic officers will be patrolling the M5, A38 and A30 to assist with any breakdowns and incidents.

“Junction 30 of the M5 could be particularly busy and the north approach to junction 30 could also see significant increases in traffic between 8am and 10.30am over the three days when visitors to the Devon Show could be using the motorway at the same time as commuter and freight traffic.

“The A30 east and west of Exeter and A38 south of Exeter could also see increases in traffic, and drivers are advised to plan their travel routes well in advance, and to keep up to date with the latest road conditions. Yellow signs will advise show visitors which route to take on the approaches to the show.”

For event details, visit the Devon County Show website. 

Real-time travel information is available through local radio, @HighwaysSWEST on Twitter, the National Highways Information Line (0300 123 5000), or the Traffic England website (www.trafficengland.com).