Drivers’ speed ‘bumps’ surprise

DRIVERS heading down one Welsh road were surprised to see new speed bumps had been installed.

But those who slowed down expecting the familiar bump as their wheels hit the traffic calming measure were flummoxed when they felt nothing at all.

On closer inspection from the pavement, it’s clear these “speed bumps” aren’t what they seem.

They have been specially designed to look like normal humps in the road, when in fact they are just painted on.

The unusual “phantom” speed bumps appeared on the A472 Mafon Road through the town of Nelson in the county borough of Caerphilly.

Caerphilly council said the three dimensional illusions were added to the road alongside a pedestriancontrolled crossing as part of the Ty Du housing development.

The speed limit along the stretch of road has been reduced from 40mph to 30mph to ensure the safe operation of the new crossing.

They say the markings are intended to give a “reminder” of the new speed limit, but because the road is a major route “actual speed bumps are not appropriate”.

Motoring journalist Colin Barnett said they are actually used quite frequently. “They are not uncommon,” Mr Barnett said. “People think they are real so they are supposed to slow down.

“I have got no problem with them. They are better than the real thing, they don’t damage your car so much. After a while they become less effective, but you could say that about a lot of things.If it has slowed down a few drivers then it is worth the effort.”