Plymouth residents urged to help shape major road improvements, with key routes affected

Residents across Plymouth are being invited to have their say on major plans to upgrade the city’s key transport corridor, known as the Major Road Network (MRN). 

The changes proposed could affect thousands of daily journeys and play a significant role in how people travel across the city.

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The route in focus stretches from the A38 at Weston Mills to Marsh Mills and takes in St Budeaux Bypass, Wolseley Road, Alma Road, the city centre and Embankment Road. 

It connects neighbourhoods, employment sites, retail areas and public services, whilst also serving as an important diversion route if there are delays or closures on the A38.

Plymouth City Council says the network often carries high levels of traffic and suffers from congestion and delays. 

Public transport such as buses can see delays, pavements and cycle paths are too narrow or in poor condition, and some crossing points are also difficult to use.

The council is proposing improvements at three main locations: Marsh Mills Roundabout, Embankment Road and St Budeaux Bypass.

Improvement plans have so far outlined:

• Extra lanes and longer merge lanes
• Junction upgrades to increase capacity
• Wider and improved walking and cycling routes
• New and improved crossing points
• Bus priority measures
• Removal of the low Seagull Bridge on Embankment Road
• A new flood defence wall along parts of the Embankment

The Plym Estuary and main railway line run alongside Embankment Road, and the council says new flood defences are needed to reduce the risk to homes, roads and rail infrastructure.

Councillor John Stephens, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport, said: “We want to hear from as many people as possible before moving to the next stage of design. 

“These proposals aim to tackle delays while making the route safer and more reliable for everyone who uses it.”

The plans were last consulted on in 2021, when 69 per cent of respondents supported improvements. 

The six-week consultation opened last Friday (6 February) and runs until Friday 20 March 2026. 

Residents can complete an online survey or attend drop-in events across the city, including at The Beacon in North Prospect, The Business Centre in Cattedown, Weston Mill Social Club, Tothill Community Centre and a city centre venue.

Plymouth Sutton and Devonport MP Luke Pollard has encouraged people to take part. 

“Our MRN is the city's "arterial vein," but let’s be honest, it needs a makeover. Your voice matters. This isn't a done deal, and they are asking for your feedback to get it right. Let’s make our city easier to get around,” he said.

Some residents have raised concerns on social media, with one local saying existing roads should be improved before building new ones. 

Mr Pollard replied that the scheme focuses on upgrading current roads rather than creating new routes.

Another resident suggested changes to the junction between Embankment Road and Lanhydrock Road to improve traffic flow. 

Mr Pollard indicated funding for the project is aimed at improving overall movement along the main route and thanked residents for their feedback.

Full details of the proposals and the online survey are available on Plymouth City Council’s website.