Drive to improve views of roadside monuments
MOTORISTS will get better views of monuments under plans to boost the green credentials of our busiest roads.
National Highways wants to protect and enhance heritage sites next to motorways and major A roads.
It plans to improve visibility and accessibility of historical sites, and provide more information to road users about the areas through which they are driving.
Location information will be provided on notice boards in lay-bys as well as at nearby service stations.
Heritage assets that have benefited from National Highways’ support in recent years include Penshaw Monument, which is visible from the A19 in Tyne & Wear; the Wellington Monument, which can be seen from the M5 in Somerset; and Stover Country Park’s gatehouse, next to the A38 in Devon.
AA president Edmund King said the plans could cut accidents caused by drowsiness.
He added: “Viewing monuments close to main roads can break up the monotony of long drives and give car occupants the chance to take a break.
“A quarter of fatal crashes are sleeprelated, so drowsiness is one of the most under-estimated risks on the roads.
“It is crucial we know how to manage tiredness in relation to driving.
“The better-kept monuments on main roads often give drivers and families a chance to stop off, which can be beneficial.”
National Highways’ environmental sustainability strategy also aims to use its land to reconnect habitats, reverse declines in biodiversity, support the increase in zeroemission vehicles and develop new ways of reducing pollution.
This could include erecting solar panels on noise barriers, introducing wetlands for natural flood management and building more green bridges for wildlife to cross roads.
Nick Harris, National Highways chief executive, said: “Most journeys will still be made by road in 2050 so it is more important than ever that we manage our network in a way that balances the needs of today with those of tomorrow.
“This is why we are passionate about making our network as environmentally sustainable as it can be.
“From the air that we breathe to the natural resources that we use to create and innovate – our economy, health and wellbeing depend upon a thriving environment.
“With 4,500 miles of motorways and major A roads, we are uniquely placed to play an active and positive role in achieving this.”