Drivers bemused by numbered diversions
Dozens of numbered signs have been put up around Maidstone as work begins on one of the county’s busiest routes.
The Running Horse Roundabout, by the A229 Blue Bell Hill, is to become a “turbo roundabout”.
In March, it was revealed Kent County Council (KCC) plans to upgrade the junction in a bid to reduce the number of crashes and congestion.
The work started on Monday, with the roundabout closed daily between 8pm and 5am for up to three weeks.
Originating from the Netherlands, a “turbo roundabout” is designed to prevent drivers from switching lanes by using colour-coded routes.
This means motorists will need to pick their chosen exit before entering and follow the correct lane.
The redesign will cost KCC around £650,000.
In the lead up to the works, a series of numbered signs with arrows have been popping up in and around the area, leaving many people bemused.
Several have been spotted in Boxley Road, Lower Boxley Road and on Blue Bell Hill. People were speculating on social media about what their purpose was.
One commented: “It’s for the
drivers that have deliveries etc – so they know where their access meeting point or drop off is as they are scattered around due to space.”
Another said: “We thought it might have been some sort of parking for the Maidstone Football Club game the other night. But then we saw the signs at the top of Blue Bell Hill.”
Some believed it was to do with a marathon event. However, KCC confirmed the signs are part of several diversion routes for the works.
Each number represents a different exit route. Full details can be found online on the website
one.network.
“Numbered directional signs are being installed to divert traffic in different directions while the Running Horse Roundabout works are carried out,” a spokeswoman explained.
“When the work starts and the slip roads are closed, signs will be erected to advise drivers which numbered diversion they should follow.”
KCC is making the changes in a bid to cut down on crashes. In the past three years alone 13 people have reported being injured in collisions at the junction. The figure for the past five years is 29.