Drivers urged to plan ahead as traffic warnings issued ahead of Devon County Show

National Highways has issued a travel advisory for drivers ahead of the three-day Devon County Show at the Westpoint Arena, which is expected to draw up to 100,000 attendees.

The event, which takes place from Thursday, 15 May to Saturday, 17 May, will likely lead to increased traffic around Exeter, particularly on the M5, A30, and A38.

National Highways has warned of possible congestion, particularly during the morning influx to the show.

The M5 is expected to see heavy traffic north and south of junctions 29 and 30, with the M5 northbound between junctions 30 and 31 predicted to be particularly busy on Thursday morning. Drivers travelling on the A30 west of Exeter should also expect delays.

To alleviate traffic, M5 drivers will be directed to junction 30 to access the showground via the A376 and A3052, while A30 westbound traffic will be rerouted via the B3180 and A3052.

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 advice 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.”

Mr Ingram also noted that the north approach to junction 30 could see significant increases in traffic, particularly between 8am and 10.30am, when visitors to the Devon Show will 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 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,” Mr Ingram added.

For the latest traffic updates, drivers are encouraged to listen to local radio, visit the National Highways website, or check the @HighwaysSWEST X feed. The National Highways Information Line can also be reached at 0300 123 5000.

For further event details, attendees should visit the Devon County Show website.