the A30/35 is currently operated and maintained under a Design, Build, Finance, Operate (DBFO) concession – in simple terms this is a Private Finance Initiative (PFI) contract. On 30 September 2026, our contract with the DBFO Company will come to an end and the the responsibility for the day-to-day operation, maintenance, and renewal of the route will transfer to National Highways. I will contact you nearer the time to ensure that you have the relevant and updated contacts for any issues from 1 October onwards.
In preparation for the handover, the DBFO will be undertaking a significant renewals programme to ensure that the route meets the handback requirements written into their contract. We are very aware that this means communities along the A30/35 need strong comms between now and 1 October to ensure that there is clarity on the closures and how this might impact road users and residents.
As shown in the attached graphic, the closures will be starting with the stretch between M5 J29 and Daisymount and then will shift east to reach the end of the route at Bere Regis. We are aware that the route is somewhat split with the A30 from M5 – Honiton feeling much more strategic while the A35 from Honiton to Bere Regis brings with it much more nuanced community issues with more concerns around local access.
Jonny Hill Route Manager – Somerset, Dorset & Devon (East of Exeter)
South West Operations
National Highways
National Highways