A Labour local election pledge to improve a crucial junction in Crownhill has been given the go ahead.

Council leader Tudor Evans OBE has signed an executive decision to release funding to enable the long-awaited Charlton Road junction improvement scheme to go ahead.

The work will mean drivers will once again be able to turn right from Tavistock Road into Charlton Road. The turning was closed during construction of the Derriford Transport Scheme and work to reinstate it was originally due to get under way in 2020.

However, it was postponed to avoid putting additional pressure on the road network during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as nearby works on Morlaix Drive.

Plymouth Labour councillor for Budshead, Kevin Sproston, said he was “delighted” at the news.

“During my recent election campaign I heard time and time again how much residents wanted the turning reinstated. For too long they have been spoon fed excuses and misinformation on this matter by the previous administration,” said Cllr Sproston, who was elected in May.

“The residents quite rightly wanted results, answers and action and I am proud to be the councillor delivering this for them.

“This Labour Council has kept its promises and has put considerable time, attention and additional funding into delivering this project and I want to thank everyone who has worked so hard to make this happen. I now look forward to seeing the implementation and commencement of work.”

Fred Thomas, who is Labour’s Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Plymouth Moor View, said it was “fantastic” that the new Labour-run City Council was listening to residents and acting on their concerns.

“I am pleased to say that the Labour Party is working hard to champion residents in this area of the city,” said Fred.

“As someone who lives and works in Plymouth, I am really pleased that this change is going ahead.

“What Plymouth Moor View needs now is an MP in Parliament who will also stand up for local residents and deliver results. I will do that as your MP and I will deliver a fresh start for our constituency.”