Residents' frustration at 'roadworks nightmare' in Plymouth

Residents and businesses that use Tavistock road in Plymouth say they are frustrated with the slow progress of major roadworks along the route.

The £12 million 'Derriford Transport Scheme' is an upgrade to the A386, which serves as the main arterial route from Plymouth City Centre to Derriford Hospital in the north of the city.

It began in January, but has been hit by delays, including the discovery of several grenades under a roundabout, which stopped work for several days.

Viv Evans is a mother of two, who lives in Tamerton Foliot, a village on the outskirts of Plymouth. She has seen the time it takes to do the morning school-run to Eggbuckland triple since the start of the roadworks.

It takes an average of 45 minutes at peak time, to travel just over three miles.

Meanwhile several businesses have also vented their frustration.

The Jack Rabbit pub looks onto Derriford roundabout, and the manager says the ongoing roadworks have caused him huge problems:

While the owner of the "Little India" takeaway in Greenbank says his delivery drivers are often out for more than hour or an hour and a half making simple journeys, causing customers to take their business elsewhere.

Plymouth City Council insist that the improvement works are being completed on their original schedule, in phased sections.

Councillors hope that the restrictions will be lifted by March next year.

The Deputy Leader Patrick Nicholson is urging drivers to be patient:

Watch Nick Smith's report in full: