The work, starting on Monday, December 4, will be carried out to replace a culvert on the route which has collapsed.

The road leading from Honiton to Dunkeswell could be closed for up to five days next month while drainage repairs are carried out.

The work, starting on Monday, December 4, will be carried out to replace a culvert on the route which has collapsed.

A signed diversion will be in place via the A30, Monkton, Upottery and Smeatharpe and vice versa.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council cabinet member for highway management, said: “It’s essential this culvert is replaced for the safety of people using the road and we’re investing in ensuring it is well maintained.

“This scheme will involve digging up the road, so it will have to be closed.

“There’s never a good time to close a road and while we appreciate it will cause some inconvenience, every effort is being made to minimise disruption, so we would advise people to allow extra time for their journey.”

While the road is closed, new gullies will also be installed and other maintenance work will be undertaken.

Councillor Iain Chubb, Devon County Councillor for Whimple and Blackdown, added: “The culvert has been deteriorating over the past few years and it is essential for the structure to be replaced in order to maintain the safety of highway users.

“This is a busy road and the important work will be done to reduce or eliminate the flow of water over the roadway which will help with the sustainability of the road surface and therefore help towards road safety.”