DRIVERS in North Cornwall are set to face hefty diversions as roadworks prepare to get underway.

Motorists travelling between Launceston and Kelly Bray will need to look for alternative routes as Cornwall Council undertakes roadworks along the stretch of road.

From November 24, to November 29, works are being carried out along the A388, spanning a total of five miles.

The closure, which is set to be in place between 7pm and 6am, affects the A388 between Tavistock Road and Little Comfort, Lawhitton, the A388 between Little Comfort and the junction North West of Monks Hill, Lezant and the A388 between the junction North West of Monks Hill to Penpill, Treburley, Launceston for their entire lengths and A388 Between Penpill and Launceston Road, Stoke Climsland, Callington between the junction with Penpill Farm House.

The council has explained that the closure is being undertaken to allow for ‘road maintenance and gully emptying’.

During the 11 hour period, drivers looking to traverse the road will instead be rerouted along a planned diversion, laid out by the council.

This route will see drivers add an additional 13 miles to their journey as they are diverted towards Five Lanes and the A30. As well as increasing the journey to 18.9 miles, drivers will also see an increased journey time, from a mere five minutes, to a total of 26 minutes.

The council has expressed that the closure will not apply to police, the fire brigade, ambulances or any personnel vehicle on official duty. Any vehicle being used an emergency, such as the loss of supplies of gas, electricity or water to premises in the area will also be allowed access.

Alongside this, access will be maintained to properties for those that live along the length of the closure.