Work on the second phase of the project to refurbish the traffic light gantries at the Torpoint ferry is due to begin on Monday, 9 September. It is expected that all works will be completed by 25 October.

The steel gantries, which span the queuing lanes over the A374 at Torpoint and the traffic marshalling area at Devonport, contain the equipment and traffic lights used to control and monitor traffic into the queuing lanes and then subsequently onto the ferry slipways on both sides of the river.

Following a survey which found that extensive areas of the protective topcoat on each structure were severely weathered, it was decided to recoat the gantries at the first available opportunity to minimise the risk of corrosion and maximise the life of the structure.

The first phase at Devonport took place between 19 June and was completed on 31 July 2024.

There will be restricted queuing capacity as designated queuing lanes will be closed to provide access and ensure safe working areas for contractors operating mobile elevated work platforms.

Traffic signals will not be in operation during the works and traffic will be managed manually by ferry staff. This will involve marshalling staff sited at the front and rear of queuing lanes to direct traffic and co-ordinate call forward for loading to each of the ferries.

The first two weeks will involve the introduction of the traffic management measures and the removal of equipment from each of the gantries. All equipment will be inspected, serviced or, where applicable, replaced.

Work will then take place to prepare and recoat the structural surfaces, rehouse cables and return the equipment before the power is reconnected. Following final checks, inspections and testing of systems, the lane restrictions will be lifted and the gantries will return to full operation.