A sign of the times

✒ STEPHEN Tyndall, who has successfully got Bristol Council to cancel his fine for using the “Buses Only” route off the M32, hit that nail on the head in his letter to the Post regarding the substandard quality and clarity of the controversial signage.

Ironically the Highway Code requires every driver to note every sign and react correctly.

Fat chance with the increasing amount to note – the latest is on the A4174 at the Hambrook, M32 junction stretch.... a mobile sign this week for “emergency signs” also flashing WIN A BALLOON FLIGHT! What??? Crash!!!

So back on to my old theme of many letters past, about the neglect of signs by highways departments who have the responsibility of ensuring absolute clarity and safety, especially with directions signs as Mr Tindall has said. They should indicate major locations first then minor ones – or, better still, all on the same signboard.

Possibly councils are letting drivers’ increasing use of satnavs for getting around replace their legally responsible job, so keeping within budgets? Or is that too cynical?

Last point; do Highways officers actually drive along roads within their areas of responsibility? If so, many should have gone to Specsavers!

Alan Elkan

Downend