Sowton Interchange

The Sowton Interchange, junction 29 of the M5, is the first of two junctions between the M5 and A30 (the other being Pearce's Hill). Between the two junctions, the A30 multiplexes with the M5. It also connects to the old A30, now A3015, which leads into Exeter city centre.

It is of a unique design, consisting of four slip roads of various types. The junction was once smaller, with only south facing slip roads onto the M5, forming a modified fork. The junction was altered into its current layout when the A30 was dualled.

The original design for the junction called for two loops on the western side of the junction, allowing traffic on the northbound carriageway to get on and off. Another drawing had it as a roundabout. Collector/Distributor lanes were planned to link the loops together, to prevent weaving. The only part of this that was built was the northbound offslip.

Between here and junction 30, the M5 is D4M, with a dedicated lane between the two junctions.

Further work is currently planned at this junction.

Routes

Route	To	Notes
M5	The MIDLANDS, Taunton, Bristol
M5	The SOUTH WEST, Plymouth, Torquay, Okehampton
A30	Honiton	Formerly signed to London (via A303 and M3)
A3015	Exeter City Centre	Former A30

Links

• SABRE Forum Discussion

legislation.gov.uk

• The M5 Motorway (Junction 29 and the A30 Trunk Road Honiton to Exeter Improvement) (Slip Roads Special Roads) Scheme 1994

• The M5 Motorway (Junction 29 Connecting Road) Scheme 2010 - This scheme provides for the widening of the M5 Motorway southbound exit slip road at Junction 29.

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