Road users on the Strategic Road Network (SRN) can feel more confident when driving through roadworks, thanks to new innovative clear, reassuring, and informative signage.

An initiative by SRL Traffic Systems, in collaboration with National Highways and Kier, has introduced an innovative use of variable message signs (VMS) to enhance the road user experience by clearly communicating changes to the road layout during roadworks.

On 23 October 2024, new signs were installed in a contraflow section of the A417 Missing Link project as part of the broader Electronic Boards for Roadworks review, which has significantly increased understanding of the changes due to roadworks.

Industry research has shown that messages which can be read within four seconds are better for our road users. The new signs display concise, friendly messages in white text over a black background. Previously signs presented yellow text on a black background.

National Highways is always seeking new ways to balance essential information with a clear and safe route through our works. For the first time, a blue-framed VMS unit is used for non-regulatory messages, strengthening its communication with road users.

The new signs allow National Highways to communicate transparently and succinctly to motorists using short simple messaging such as ‘Working even out of view’, providing an awareness of operations outside of the public eye.

National Highways can display this messaging thanks to updated standards for electronic boards for roadworks, including text colour and border additions, allowing it to use them more as electronic billboards than traditional variable message signs.

Nick Nandhra, project manager for National Highways said: “These new signs mark a significant advancement in our goal to enhance road user experiences. Clear communication during roadworks is crucial, and we’re excited to set a new standard in road messaging and launch these signs for the first time.”

The Electronic Boards for Roadworks guidelines drive design and compliance improvements by ensuring:

• Enhanced visibility
• Alignment with national guidelines
• Safe positioning within the work zone
• Placement away from critical decision points
• No interference with directional signage
• Minimal distractions for drivers

Kier and SRL Traffic Systems collaborate to maintain signage and provide real-time updates.

Caroline Weller, VMS manager at SRL Traffic Systems said: “As the first scheme implementing this standard, we’re thrilled to showcase a modern, customer-focused approach to traffic management.”

National Highways will continue refining messages based on road user insights, addressing road user concerns, and keeping messages relevant throughout each project phase.

Kier project director Gavin Jones highlighted the initiative’s success, stating: “The A417 Missing Link team are very pleased to have worked with National Highways and SRL on this initiative, and to be the first project to deploy the new signs. We are confident that the signs will assist motorists travelling through the A417 and improve their journeys.”