Legalize / United Kingdom / Statutory-Instrument

The Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2002

Type Statutory-Instrument

Publication 2002-12-16

Last updated 2004-12-30

State In force

Department King's Printer of Acts of Parliament

Source legislation.gov.uk

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(e) in order to pass a road maintenance vehicle which is in use, is moving at a speed not exceeding 10 mph, and is displaying to the rear the sign shown in diagram 610 or 7403;

(f) in order to pass a pedal cycle moving at a speed not exceeding 10 mph;

(g) in order to pass a horse that is being ridden or led at a speed not exceeding 10 mph; or

(h) for the purposes of complying with any direction of a constable in uniform or a traffic warden.

(7) The warning conveyed by a road marking mentioned in paragraph (1) shall be that no vehicle while travelling next to a broken line placed on the left of a continuous line, as viewed in the direction of travel of the vehicle, should cross or straddle the first-mentioned line unless it is seen by the driver of the vehicle to be safe to do so.

Road marking shown in diagram 1001.3: zig-zag lines—no stopping

27

(1) In this regulation and regulation 28—

“controlled area” means a length of carriageway—which is adjacent to a signal-controlled crossing facility and has a zig-zag line marked along each of its edges (with or without zig-zag lines also marked down its centre); andin or near which no other signs or markings have been placed except ones comprised in the combination of signs and markings indicating the presence of the facility or shown in diagram 610, 611, 612, 613, 616, 810, 1029 or 1062;

“local service” does not include an excursion or tour as defined by section 137(1) of the Transport Act 1985; and

“vehicle” does not include a pedal bicycle not having a sidecar attached to it, whether or not additional means of propulsion by mechanical power are attached to the bicycle.

(2) Subject to paragraphs (3) and (4) and without prejudice to regulation 28, a zig-zag line shall convey the requirement that the driver of a vehicle shall not cause any part of it to stop in the controlled area in which it is marked.

(3) Paragraph (2) does not prohibit the driver of a vehicle from stopping it in a controlled area—

(a) if the driver has stopped it for the purpose of complying with an indication given by a light signal for the control of vehicular traffic or the direction of a constable in uniform or a traffic warden;

(b) if the driver is prevented from proceeding by circumstances beyond his control or it is necessary for him to stop to avoid injury or damage to persons or property; or

(c) when the vehicle is being used for police, fire brigade or, in England, fire and rescue authority or ambulance purposes.

(4) Paragraph (2) does not prohibit the driver of a vehicle from stopping it in a controlled area—

(a) for so long as may be necessary to enable the vehicle to be used for the purposes of—

(i) any operation involving building, demolition or excavation;

(ii) the removal of any obstruction to traffic;

(iii) the maintenance, improvement or reconstruction of a road; or

(iv) the laying, erection, alteration, repair or cleaning in or near the controlled area of any sewer or of any main, pipe or apparatus for the supply of gas, water or electricity, or of any electronic communications apparatus kept installed for the purposes of a electronic communications code system or of any other electronic communications apparatus lawfully kept installed in any position;

(b) in the provision of a local service, and the vehicle, having proceeded past the light signals to which the controlled area relates, is waiting in that area in order to take up or set down passengers; or

Road marking shown in diagram 1001.3: zig-zag lines—no overtaking

28

(1) Without prejudice to regulation 27, a zig-zag line shall convey the requirement that, whilst any motor vehicle (in this regulation called “the approaching vehicle”) or any part of it is within the limits of a controlled area and is proceeding towards the signal-controlled crossing facility to which the controlled area relates, the driver of the vehicle shall not cause it or any part of it—

(a) to pass ahead of the foremost part of any other motor vehicle proceeding in the same direction; or

(b) to pass ahead of the foremost part of a vehicle which is stationary for the purpose of complying with the indication given by a traffic light signal for controlling vehicular traffic.

(2) In paragraph (1)—

(a) the reference to a motor vehicle in sub-paragraph (a) is, in a case where more than one motor vehicle is proceeding in the same direction as the approaching vehicle in a controlled area, a reference to the motor vehicle nearest to the signal-controlled crossing facility to which the controlled area relates; and

(b) the reference to a stationary vehicle is, in a case where more than one vehicle is stationary in a controlled area for the purpose of complying with the indication given by a traffic light signal for controlling vehicular traffic, a reference to the stationary vehicle nearest the signal-controlled crossing facility to which the controlled area relates.

Road markings shown in diagrams 1025.1, 1025.3, 1025.4, 1043 and 1044: bus stop and bus stand clearways and box junctions

29

(1) The road markings shown in diagrams 1025.1, 1025.3 and 1025.4 shall convey the prohibition specified in Part I of Schedule 19.

(2) The road markings shown in diagrams 1043 and 1044 shall convey the prohibition specified in Part II of Schedule 19.

Permitted variants of road markings

30

(1) Where the circumstances in which a road marking shown in a diagram in Schedule 6 is to be placed so require or where appropriate in those circumstances, the form of the marking shall or may be varied as follows—

(a) in the manner (if any) allowed or required in item 4 of the untitled table below or beside the diagram; or

(b) in the manner allowed or required in column (3) of an item in Schedule 16, if the diagram is one whose number is given in column (2) of that item.

(2) In the road marking shown in diagram 1035, route numbers, place names and the direction in which any arrow-head points shall be varied to accord with the circumstances but the words “turn left”, “ahead” or “turn right” shall not be included in the marking.

(3) Where the form of a road marking is varied in accordance with this regulation, the information, warning, requirement, restriction, prohibition or speed limit conveyed by the marking is varied to accord with the form of marking as varied.

Illumination of road markings

31

(1) Subject to paragraph (2) a road marking shown in diagram 1001 (except when used in conjunction with the road marking shown in diagram 1001.3), 1001.1, 1001.2, 1002.1, 1003, 1003.1, 1003.3, 1003.4, 1004, 1004.1, 1005, 1005.1, 1008, 1008.1, 1009, 1010, 1012.1, 1012.2, 1012.3, 1013.1, 1013.3, 1013.4, 1014, 1022, 1023, 1024, 1024.1, 1036.1, 1036.2, 1037.1, 1039, 1040, 1040.2, 1040.3, 1040.4, 1040.5, 1041, 1041.1, 1042, 1042.1, 1046, 1049, 1062, 1064 or 1065 shall be reflectorised.

(2) Paragraph (1) shall not apply to a road marking shown in diagram 1003, 1023 or 1049 when varied for use on a cycle track.

(3) Subject to paragraph (4), studs incorporating reflectors or retroreflecting material and so spaced as to form a single line of studs not less than 3 nor more than 4.5 metres apart shall be fitted—

(a) between the two lines constituting the marking shown in diagram 1013.1, except where that marking is so placed that the continuous lines shown in version B of diagram 1013.1 are more than 175 millimetres apart and are separated by an area of cross-hatching so shown;

(b) between the two continuous parallel lines forming part of the marking shown in diagrams 1013.3 and 1013.4.

(4) Where the marking shown in diagram 1013.1 is placed as mentioned in the exception to paragraph (3)(a), the studs mentioned in paragraph (3) shall be fitted either in opposite pairs within the width of each of the two lines or in a single line between those lines.

(5) Subject to the foregoing provisions of this regulation, and to paragraph (6), any road marking may be reflectorised, and studs incorporating reflectors or retroreflecting material may be used with a road marking shown in diagram 1004, 1004.1, 1005, 1005.1, 1008, 1008.1, 1010, 1012.1, 1012.2, 1012.3, 1025.3, 1025.4, 1035, 1040, 1040.2, 1040.3, 1040.4, 1040.5, 1041, 1041.1, 1042 or 1042.1 in such a manner that any such stud shall not be fitted to any part of the marking coloured white or yellow but shall be applied to the surface of the carriageway in the gaps between parts of a broken line, or alongside a solid line, forming part of the marking.

(6) In the case of a road marking shown in diagram 1012.1, 1012.2, 1012.3, 1042 or 1042.1 the studs shall, if fitted, be applied to the surface of the carriageway at the side of and adjacent to the line shown in the diagram.

(7) Reflectors or retroreflecting material incorporated in studs shall be white except that in the case of studs used with a road marking shown in diagram 1010, 1012.1, 1012.2, 1012.3, 1025.3, 1025.4, 1040.3, 1040.4, 1040.5, 1041, 1041.1, 1042 or 1042.1 the reflectors or retroreflecting material shall reflect—

(a) red light where the near side edge of a carriageway is indicated to drivers of approaching vehicles, or when placed in conjunction with the markings shown in diagrams 1041, 1041.1, 1042 and 1042.1 to indicate the off side edge of a carriageway;

(b) amber light to indicate the off side edge of a carriageway which—

(i) is contiguous to a central reservation or to traffic cones or cylinders at road works or to the road marking shown in diagram 1040.3; or

(ii) carries traffic in one direction only; and

(c) green light when placed in conjunction with a road marking shown in diagram 1010, 1025.3 or 1025.4 where the edge of any part of the carriageway available for through traffic at a junction, a lay-by or a parking place is so indicated to drivers of approaching vehicles.

(8) The colour of the parts of the stud other than the reflectors or retroreflecting material shall either be the same as the reflectors or retroreflecting material, or be white, or be a natural metallic finish or other neutral colour, or shall be fluorescent green/yellow in the case of studs placed temporarily at road works.

Height of road markings and size of studs

32

(1) The size and shape of a stud incorporating reflectors or retroreflecting material shall be such that the part which is visible above the surface of the road can be contained within—

(a) an overall length in the direction of travel of traffic of not less than 35 millimetres and not exceeding 250 millimetres; and

(b) an overall width of not less than 84 millimetres and not exceeding 190 millimetres.

(2) No road marking or stud shall project above the surface of the adjacent carriageway more than 6 millimetres at any point except—

(a) a depressible stud, which shall not project above that surface more than 25 millimetres at its highest point, whether depressed or not;

(b) a non-depressible stud, which shall not project above that surface more than 20 millimetres at its highest point;

(c) the central circular part of the road marking shown in diagram 1003.4, which shall not project above that surface more than 125 millimetres at its highest point or 6 millimetres at its perimeter;

(d) the road marking shown in diagram 1012.2, the raised ribs on which shall project above the surface of the remainder of the marking by not more than 11 millimetres; or

(e) the road marking shown in diagram 1012.3, the raised ribs on which shall project above the surface of the remainder of the marking by not more than 8 millimetres; and

(f) the road marking shown in diagram 1049.1, the height of which above the surface of the adjacent carriageway shall be within the range of dimensions indicated on the second part of that diagram illustrating the cross-section of the marking.

(3) In this regulation, the expression “depressible stud” means a stud so fitted that the height by which it, or part of it, projects above the surface of the adjacent carriageway is apt to be reduced when pressure is applied to the stud from above; and “non-depressible stud” and “depressed” shall be construed accordingly.

SECTION 5 — LIGHT SIGNALS AND WARNING LIGHTS

Light signals for the control of vehicular traffic—standard form

33

(1) Subject to regulation 34, light signals for the control of vehicular traffic (other than tramcars) at junctions, at places where the headroom or the width of the road is permanently restricted, or at signal-controlled crossing facilities—

(a) shall be of the size, colour and type shown in diagram 3000, 3000.7, 3000.8, 3000.9 or 3000.10;

(b) shall be illuminated in the sequence prescribed by paragraph (3); and

(2) Light signals for the control of vehicular traffic consisting exclusively of pedal cycles—

(a) shall be of the size, colour and type shown in diagram 3000.2;

(b) shall be illuminated in the sequence prescribed by paragraph (3); and

(3) The sequence of illumination of the lights shown by the signals prescribed by paragraphs (1) and (2) shall be as follows—

(a) red,

(b) red and amber together,

(d) amber.

(4) Where the light signals are varied as prescribed by regulation 34, one or more green arrows shown in diagram 3001.2 or 3001.3 may be illuminated whilst any of the lights referred to in paragraph (3) are illuminated.

(5) For the purposes of these Regulations a signal head is “ES compliant” if, in relation to each aspect of its performance specified in column (2) of an item in the Table, it complies with the requirement or test specification of European Standard EN12368: 2000 specified in column (3) of the item or to an equivalent requirement or test specification specified in a corresponding EEA standard.

(1)	(2)	(3)
Item	Aspect of performance	Requirement or test specification and class
1.	Protection rating	Class IV: IP 55
2.	Operating temperature range	Class A
3.	Luminous intensity	Performance level 3, class 2
4.	Distribution of luminous intensity	Type M
5.	Maximum signal phantom	Class 5
6.	Signal lights incorporating symbols	Class S1
7.	Background screen	Class C1
8.	Impact resistance	Class IR2

Green arrow light signals for the control of vehicular traffic

34

(1) A lens or lenses of the size and colour shown in diagram 3001.2 or 3001.3 which, when illuminated, shows a green arrow—

(a) may be substituted for the lens showing the green light in the light signals referred to in regulation 33(1) using any of the methods shown in diagram 3000.8 or 3000.10; or

(b) may be affixed to the light signals referred to in regulation 33(1) or to those signals as altered in accordance with sub-paragraph (a) using any of the methods shown in diagrams 3000.7, 3000.8, 3000.9 and 3000.10.

(2) The direction of the arrow shown in indication B in diagram 3001.2 or 3001.3 may be varied so that the head of the arrow points to any position lying between indication A and indication C.

(3) The direction of the arrow shown in indication D in diagram 3001.2 or 3001.3 may be varied so that the head of the arrow points to any position lying between indication C and indication E.

Portable light signals for the control of vehicular traffic

35

Portable light signals for the control of vehicular traffic other than tramcars shall be—

(a) of the size, colour and type shown in diagram 3000.1;

(b) illuminated in the sequence prescribed by regulation 33(3); and

Significance of light signals prescribed by regulations 33 to 35

36

(1) The significance of the light signals prescribed by regulations 33, 34 and 35 shall be as follows—

(a) subject to sub-paragraph (b) and, where the red signal is shown at the same time as the green arrow signal, to sub-paragraphs (f) and (g), the red signal shall convey the prohibition that vehicular traffic shall not proceed beyond the stop line;

(b) when a vehicle is being used for fire brigade or, in England, fire and rescue authority, ambulance, bomb or explosive disposal, national blood service or police purposes and the observance of the prohibition conveyed by the red signal in accordance with sub-paragraph (a) would be likely to hinder the use of that vehicle for the purpose for which it is being used, then sub-paragraph (a) shall not apply to the vehicle, and the red signal shall convey the prohibition that that vehicle shall not proceed beyond the stop line in a manner or at a time likely to endanger any person or to cause the driver of any vehicle proceeding in accordance with the indications of light signals operating in association with the signals displaying the red signal to change its speed or course in order to avoid an accident;

(c) the red-with-amber signal shall, subject in a case where it is displayed at the same time as the green arrow signal to sub-paragraph (f), denote an impending change to green or a green arrow in the indication given by the signals but shall convey the same prohibition as the red signal;

(d) the green signal shall indicate that vehicular traffic may proceed beyond the stop line and proceed straight on or to the left or to the right;

(e) the amber signal shall, when shown alone, convey the same prohibition as the red signal, except that, as respects any vehicle which is so close to the stop line that it cannot safely be stopped without proceeding beyond the stop line, it shall convey the same indication as the green signal or green arrow signal which was shown immediately before it;

(f) save as provided in sub-paragraphs (g) and (h), the green arrow signal shall indicate that vehicular traffic may, notwithstanding any other indication given by the signals, proceed beyond the stop line only in the direction indicated by the arrow for the purpose of proceeding in that direction through the junction controlled by those signals;

(g) where more than one green arrow is affixed to light signals in accordance with regulation 34(1)(b), vehicular traffic, notwithstanding any other indication given by the signals, may proceed beyond the stop line only in the direction indicated by any one of the green arrows for the purpose of proceeding in that direction through the junction controlled by those signals; and

(h) where the green arrow signal is displayed at the same time as the green signal, vehicular traffic may proceed in the direction indicated by the green arrow in accordance with sub-paragraph (g) or in any other direction in accordance with sub-paragraph (d).

(2) Vehicular traffic proceeding beyond a stop line in accordance with paragraph (1) shall proceed with due regard to the safety of other road users and subject to any direction given by a constable in uniform or a traffic warden or to any other applicable prohibition or restriction.

(3) In this regulation the expressions “vehicle” and “vehicular traffic” do not include tramcars.

Light signals for the control of vehicular traffic on motorways and all-purpose dual carriageway roads

37

(1) Subject to paragraph (4), light signals for the control of vehicular traffic entering or proceeding along a motorway, shall be—

(a) of the size, colour and type shown in diagram 6031.1 or 6032.1; and

(b) operated in accordance with the requirements specified in paragraph (2).

(2) The requirements are that—

(a) each lamp shall show an intermittent red light at a rate of flashing of not less than 60 nor more than 90 flashes per minute, and in such a manner that the lights of one vertical pair are always shown when the lights of the other vertical pair are not shown; and

(b) the red cross or the white symbol shown in diagram 6031.1 or 6032.1 shall be illuminated by a steady light when the red lights are flashing.

(3) Light signals for the control of vehicular traffic entering or proceeding along an all-purpose dual carriageway road may also be the size, colour and type prescribed by paragraph (1) and operated in accordance with the requirements specified in paragraph (2).

(4) Light signals for the control of vehicular traffic—

(a) entering a motorway by means of a slip road; or

(b) entering a motorway which is a roundabout may, instead of complying with paragraphs (1) and (2), be of the size, colour and type prescribed by regulation 33 or 34.

Significance of light signals prescribed by regulation 37(1)

38

The significance of the light signals prescribed by regulation 37(1) shall be as follows—

(a) when placed beside the carriageway of a road, they shall convey the prohibition that vehicular traffic on that carriageway (other than vehicles being used in the circumstances described in regulation 36(1)(b)) shall not proceed beyond the signals; and

(b) when displayed on a gantry over the carriageway, they shall convey the prohibition that vehicular traffic (other than vehicles being used in the circumstances described in regulation 36(1)(b)) proceeding in the traffic lane immediately below the signals shall not proceed beyond them in that lane,

and for the purposes of this regulation light signals which are mounted on a post situated beside the carriageway but which are projected over it or part of it shall be treated as light signals placed beside the carriageway of that road.

Light signals to control traffic at level crossings etc

39

(1) Light signals for the control of traffic at level crossings, swinging or lifting bridges, tunnels, airfields or in the vicinity of premises used regularly by fire, police or ambulance service vehicles shall—

(a) be of the size, colour and type shown in diagram 3014;

(b) be illuminated in the sequence prescribed by paragraph (2); and

(2) The sequence for the illumination of the light signals prescribed by paragraph (1) shall be as follows—

(a) a single steady amber light,

(b) two intermittent red lights, each of which will be shown at a rate of flashing of not less than 60 nor more than 90 flashes per minute, and in a such a manner that one light is always shown when the other light is not shown.

Significance of light signals prescribed by regulation 39

40

The significance of the light signals prescribed by regulation 39 shall be as follows—

(a) the amber signal shall convey the prohibition that traffic shall not proceed beyond the stop line or the road marking shown in diagram 1003.2, except that a vehicle which is so close to the stop line that it cannot safely be stopped without proceeding beyond the stop line may proceed across the level crossing; and

(b) the intermittent red signals shall convey the prohibition that traffic shall not proceed beyond the stop line or the road marking shown in diagram 1003.2.

Light signals for the control of tramcars

41

(1) Light signals for the control of tramcars shall—

(a) be of the size, colour and type shown in diagram 3013; and

(b) display the aspects shown in diagrams 3013.1, 3013.2, 3013.3, 3013.4 and 3013.5 in the sequence prescribed by paragraph (2).

(2) The sequence for the illumination of the light signals prescribed by paragraph (1) shall be as follows—

(a) the horizontal line shown in diagram 3013.1,

(b) the vertical line shown in diagram 3013.2 or either of the diagonal lines shown in diagram 3013.3 or 3013.4,

(3) When the light signals prescribed by paragraph (1) (“tram signals”) are affixed to the light signals mentioned in regulation 33 (“standard signals”) in accordance with any of the options shown in diagrams 3000.7, 3000.8, 3000.9 and 3000.10 their aspect may be such that they convey to the driver of a tramcar a different significance from that conveyed at the same time in accordance with regulation 36 to the drivers of other vehicular traffic by the aspect of the standard signals to which the tram signals are affixed.

Significance of light signals prescribed by regulation 41

42

The significance of the light signals prescribed by regulation 41 shall be as follows—

(a) the aspect shown in diagram 3013.1 shall convey the prohibition that a tramcar shall not proceed beyond the stop line;

(b) the aspect shown in diagram 3013.2 shall indicate that a tramcar may proceed beyond the stop line and proceed straight ahead;

(c) the aspect shown in diagram 3013.3 shall indicate that a tramcar may proceed beyond the stop line and proceed to the left;

(d) the aspect shown in diagram 3013.4 shall indicate that a tramcar may proceed beyond the stop line and proceed to the right; and

(e) the aspect shown in diagram 3013.5 shall convey the prohibition that a tramcar shall not proceed beyond the stop line except that, as respects a tramcar which is so close to the stop line that it cannot safely be stopped without proceeding beyond the stop line, it shall convey the same indication as the aspect which was shown immediately before it.

Meaning of stop line and references to light signals

43

(1) Subject to paragraphs (2) and (3), “stop line” in relation to light signals for the control of vehicular traffic means—

(a) in relation to any vehicle except a tramcar the road marking shown in diagram 1001 placed in conjunction with the light signals;

(b) in relation to a tramcar, the road marking shown in diagram 1001.1 placed in conjunction with those light signals, or when that marking has not been so placed, the marking shown in diagram 1001 so placed.

(2) Where the road marking shown in diagram 1001.2 has been placed in conjunction with light signals, “stop line” in relation to those light signals means—

(a) the first stop line, in the case of a vehicle (other than a pedal cycle proceeding in the cycle lane) which has not proceeded beyond that line; or

(b) the second stop line, in the case of a vehicle which has proceeded beyond the first stop line or of a pedal cycle proceeding in the cycle lane.

(3) Where no stop line has been provided in conjunction with light signals or the stop line is not visible, references in relation to those signals to the “stop line” are—

(a) in a case where the sign shown in diagram 7011, 7011.1 or 7027 is placed in conjunction with the light signals, to be treated as references to that sign; and

(b) in any other case, to be treated as references to the post or other structure on which the primary signals are mounted.

(4) A reference in this regulation or in regulations 33 to 42 to light signals, to the signals or to a signal of a particular colour is, where secondary signals as well as primary signals have been placed, a reference to the light signals displayed by both the primary and secondary signals or, as the case may be, by the primary signals operating without the secondary signals or by the secondary signals operating without the primary signals.

(5) In this regulation—

(a) “primary signals” means light signals erected on or near the carriageway of a road and—

(i) where a stop line is placed in conjunction with the signals, sited beyond that line and near one end or both ends of the line; or

(ii) where there is no stop line, sited at either edge or both edges of the carriageway or part of the carriageway which is in use by traffic approaching and controlled by the signals;

(b) “secondary signals” means light signals erected on or near the carriageway facing traffic approaching from the direction of the primary signals but sited beyond those signals as viewed from the direction of travel of such traffic; and

(i) “the first stop line” means the transverse white line or lines appearing below the pedal cycle symbol in the road markings shown in either version of diagram 1001.2;

(ii) “the second stop line” means the transverse white line appearing above the pedal cycle symbol in the road markings shown in either version of that diagram; and

(iii) “the cycle lane” means the lane so marked in either version of that diagram.

Light signals for lane control of vehicular traffic

44

(1) A light signal placed above the carriageway and facing the direction of oncoming vehicular traffic used for the control of that traffic proceeding along the traffic lane over which those signals have been placed shall be of the size, colour and type of any diagram shown in Part I of Schedule 10.

(2) The height of the centre of each light signal from the surface of the carriageway in the immediate vicinity shall be not less than 5.5 metres nor more than 9 metres.

(3) The signals prescribed by this regulation shall be so designed that—

(a) the red cross shown in diagram 5003 or 5003.1 (“the red cross”) can be internally illuminated in such a manner as to show a steady red light;

(b) the green arrow shown in diagram 5001.1 or 5001.2 (“the downward green arrow”) can be internally illuminated in such a manner as to show a steady green light;

(c) the white arrow shown in diagram 5005 or 5005.1 (“the diagonal white arrow”) can be internally illuminated in such a manner as to show a steady white light; and

(d) whenever one of the signals referred to in sub-paragraphs (a) to (c) is illuminated neither of the other signals referred to in those sub-paragraphs shall be illuminated when placed over the same traffic lane.

(4) The significance of the light signals prescribed by this regulation shall be as follows—

(a) the red cross shall convey to vehicular traffic proceeding in the traffic lane above which it is displayed the prohibition that such traffic shall not proceed beyond the red cross in the traffic lane until that prohibition is cancelled by a display over that traffic lane of the downward green arrow or diagonal white arrow or by a display over that traffic lane or beside the carriageway of the traffic sign shown in diagram 5015;

(b) the downward green arrow shall convey to vehicular traffic proceeding in the traffic lane above which it is displayed the information that such traffic may proceed or continue to do so in the lane beneath the arrow; and

(c) the diagonal white arrow shall convey to vehicular traffic proceeding in the traffic lane above which it is displayed the warning that such traffic should move into the adjacent traffic lane in the direction indicated by the arrow as soon as traffic conditions permit.

Warning signal for motorways and all-purpose dual carriageway roads

45

(1) A traffic sign for conveying the warning specified in paragraph (2) to vehicular traffic on a motorway or an all-purpose dual carriageway road shall be a light signal of the size, colour and type shown in diagram 6023.

(2) The warning conveyed by the light signal shall be that—

(a) there is a hazard ahead on the motorway or all-purpose dual carriageway road; and

(b) drivers should drive at a speed which does not exceed 30 mph until they are certain that the hazard has been passed or removed.

(3) When the light signal prescribed by this regulation is operated, each lamp shall show an intermittent amber light at a rate of flashing of not less than 60 nor more than 90 flashes per minute and in such a manner that one light is always shown when the other light is not shown.

Matrix signs for motorways and all-purpose dual carriageway roads

46

(1) In this regulation “matrix sign” means a sign shown in a diagram in Part I of Schedule 11 for conveying to traffic on a motorway or an all-purpose dual carriageway road information or a warning, requirement, restriction, prohibition or speed limit—

(a) relating to or arising out of temporary hazardous conditions on or near the motorway or dual carriageway road; and

(b) specified in the caption to a diagram contained in Part I of that Schedule.

(2) A matrix sign shall be a light signal and shall be of the size, colour and type prescribed by this regulation and shown in a diagram in Part I of Schedule 11.

(3) Where a matrix sign is placed beside the carriageway of a road the warning, requirement, restriction, prohibition or speed limit conveyed by the sign shall apply to all vehicular traffic facing that sign and proceeding along the carriageway beside which the sign is placed.

(4) For the purposes of this regulation a sign which is mounted on a post situated beside the carriageway but is projected over it or part of it shall be treated as a sign placed beside the carriageway of that road.

(5) Where a matrix sign mounted on a gantry or other structure is so placed that a traffic lane of the carriageway passes directly beneath it, the warning, requirement, restriction, prohibition or speed limit conveyed by the sign shall apply only to vehicular traffic facing that sign and proceeding along the traffic lane passing directly beneath it.

(6) A legend or symbol shown on a matrix sign shall be displayed by means of white or off-white light and except in the case of the signs shown in diagrams 6006.2, 6008.1, 6009.3 and 6012 shall be accompanied by the four lamps prescribed by paragraph (7).

(7) The four lamps mentioned in paragraph (6)—

(a) shall be of the size, colour and type shown in diagram 6022 when placed beside the carriageway or in diagram 6021 when mounted on a gantry or other structure over the carriageway; and

(b) when a matrix sign other than those shown in diagrams 6006.2, 6008.1, 6009.3 and 6012 is displayed, each lamp shall show an intermittent amber light at a rate of flashing of not less than 60 nor more than 90 flashes per minute and in such a manner that one horizontal pair of lights is always shown when the other horizontal pair of lights is not shown.

(8) The signs shown in diagrams 6006.2, 6008.1 and 6009.3 shall be accompanied by the four red lamps prescribed by regulation 37.

Light signals at signal-controlled pedestrian facilities

47

(1) In this regulation “the crossing”, in relation to a sign, means the signal-controlled pedestrian facility in relation to which the sign is placed.

(2) A sign for conveying to pedestrian traffic the warning and information specified in paragraph (4) shall—

(a) be of the size, colour and type shown in diagram 4002.1; or

(b) consist of either a single unit of the size, colour and type shown in diagram 4003.1 or of two units, one comprising the upper and the other the lower part of that unit placed close together,

and shall comply with the requirements of paragraph (3).

(3) The requirements are that the sign is so designed and constructed that—

(a) the red figure in the sign (“the red signal”) can be internally illuminated by a steady light;

(b) the green figure in the sign (“the green signal”) can be internally illuminated by a steady light;

(d) the green signal is illuminated only when there is at the same time conveyed to vehicular traffic a prohibition against entering the crossing and the prohibition is indicated by—

(i) the light signals prescribed by regulation 33 (whether or not varied in accordance with regulation 34) or 41; or

(ii) those light signals and the sign shown in diagram 606, 612, 613 or 616;

(e) in the case of the sign shown in diagram 4003.1, a push button or other switching device is included which, whilst the red signal is illuminated, in some way indicates to pedestrians whether it has been activated; and

(f) in the case of the sign shown in diagram 4002.1, the signal heads are ES compliant.

(4) The red signal, whilst it is illuminated, shall indicate the period during which, in the interests of safety, pedestrians should not use the crossing and the green signal, whilst it is illuminated, shall indicate the period during which pedestrians may use the crossing.

(5) Where the sign shown in diagram 4003.1 is provided at a crossing, any additional device which—

(a) is of the size, colour and type of only the part of that sign which shows the red and green signals or of only the part which includes the push button and the legend above it;

(b) complies with the requirements of paragraph (3) so far as they are relevant to it; and

shall give the same indication as the relevant part of the sign shown in that diagram.

(6) A push button device giving instructions to pedestrians on how to cause the green signal in the sign shown in diagram 4002.1 to become illuminated and explaining the significance of the red and green signals shall be of the size, colour and type shown in diagram 4003.

(7) The sign shown in diagram 4003 shall, whilst the word “WAIT” is illuminated, convey the same indication as the red signal.

(8) Any audible or tactile signal emitted by a device provided in conjunction with the green signal for the benefit of disabled persons shall convey to pedestrians the same indication as the green signal.

Light signals at equestrian crossings

48

(1) In this regulation “the crossing” in relation to a sign means the equestrian crossing in relation to which the sign is placed.

(2) A sign for conveying to equestrian traffic the warning and information specified in paragraph (4) shall—

(a) be of the size, colour and type shown in diagram 4003.2; or

(b) consist of either a single unit of the size, colour and type shown in diagram 4003.4 or of two units, one comprising the upper and the other the lower part of that unit placed close together,

and shall comply with the requirements of paragraph (3).

(3) The requirements are that the sign is so designed and constructed that—

(a) the red symbol in the sign (“the red signal”) can be internally illuminated by a steady light;

(b) the green symbol in the sign (“the green signal”) can be internally illuminated by a steady light;

(d) the green signal is illuminated only when there is at the same time conveyed to vehicular traffic a prohibition against entering the crossing and the prohibition is indicated by—

(i) the light signals prescribed by regulation 33 (whether or not varied in accordance with regulation 34) or 41; or

(ii) those light signals and the sign shown in diagram 606, 612, 613 or 616;

(e) in the case of the sign shown in diagram 4003.4, a push button or other switching device is included which, whilst the red signal is illuminated, in some way indicates to equestrians whether it has been activated; and

(f) in the case of the sign shown in diagram 4003.2, the signal heads are ES compliant.

(4) The red signal, whilst it is illuminated, shall indicate the period during which, in the interests of safety, equestrian traffic should not use the crossing and the green signal, whilst it is illuminated, shall indicate the time during which such traffic may use the crossing.

(5) Where the sign shown in diagram 4003.4 is provided at a crossing, any additional device which—

(a) is of the size, colour and type of only the part of that sign which shows the red and green signals or of only the part which includes the push button and the legend above it;

(b) complies with the requirements of paragraph (3) so far as they are relevant to it; and

shall give the same indication as the relevant part of the sign shown in that diagram.

(6) A push button device giving instructions to equestrians on how to cause the green signal in the sign shown in diagram 4003.2 to become illuminated and explaining the significance of the red and green signals shall be of the size, colour and type shown in diagram 4003.3.

(7) The sign shown in diagram 4003.3 shall, whilst the word “WAIT” is illuminated, convey the same indication as the red signal.

Light signals at Toucan crossings

49

(1) In this regulation “the crossing” in relation to a sign means the Toucan crossing in relation to which the sign is placed.

(2) A sign for conveying to pedestrians and pedal cyclists the warning and information specified in paragraph (4) shall—

(a) be of the size, colour and type shown in diagram 4003.5; or

(b) consist of either a single unit of the size, colour and type shown in diagram 4003.7 or of two units, one comprising the upper and the other the lower part of that unit placed close together,

and shall comply with the requirements of paragraph (3).

(3) The requirements are that the sign is so designed and constructed that—

(a) the red figures in the signs shown in diagrams 4003.5 and 4003.7 and the red cycle symbol in diagram 4003.7 (“the red signal”) can be internally illuminated by a steady light;

(b) the green figure and the green cycle symbol (“the green signal”) can be internally illuminated by a steady light;

(d) the green signal is illuminated only when there is at the same time conveyed to vehicular traffic, other than pedal cyclists wishing to use the crossing, a prohibition against entering the crossing and the prohibition is indicated by—

(i) the light signals prescribed by regulation 33 (whether or not varied in accordance with regulation 34) or 41; or

(ii) those light signals and the sign shown in diagram 606, 612, 613 or 616;

(e) in the case of the sign shown in diagram 4003.7, a push button or other switching device is included which, whilst the red signal is illuminated, in some way indicates to pedestrians and pedal cyclists whether it has been activated; and

(f) in the case of the sign shown in diagram 4003.5, the signal heads are ES compliant.

(4) The red signal, whilst it is illuminated, shall indicate the period during which, in the interests of safety, pedestrians and pedal cyclists should not use the crossing and the green signal, whilst it is illuminated, shall indicate the period during which pedestrians and pedal cyclists may use the crossing.

(5) Where the sign shown in diagram 4003.7 is provided at a crossing, any additional device which—

(a) is of the size, colour and type of only the part of that sign which shows the red and green signals or of only the part which includes the push button and the legend above it;

(b) complies with the requirements of paragraph (3) so far as they are relevant to it; and

shall give the same indication as the relevant part of the sign shown in that diagram.

(6) A push button device giving instructions to pedestrians and pedal cyclists on how to cause the green signal in the sign shown in diagram 4003.5 to become illuminated shall be of the size, colour and type shown in diagram 4003.6.

(7) The sign shown in diagram 4003.6 shall, whilst the word “WAIT” is illuminated, convey the same indication as the red signal.

(8) Any audible or tactile signal emitted by a device provided in conjunction with the green signal for the benefit of disabled pedestrians shall convey to pedestrians the same indication as the green signal.

Warning lights at school crossing places

50

A sign for conveying a warning to vehicular traffic that a school crossing place lies ahead and is being patrolled by a school crossing patrol or is otherwise in use by such children—

(a) shall be a light signal of the size, colour and type shown in diagram 4004, each lamp of which when operated shall show an intermittent amber light at a rate of flashing of not less than 60 nor more than 90 flashes per minute and in such a manner that one light is always shown when the other light is not shown; and

(b) may be erected on or near part of the road in advance of a crossing place in relation to oncoming traffic.

Cattle crossing signs and warning lights

51

(1) A sign of the size, colour and type shown in diagram 4005 may be erected on or near a road in advance of a place in that road where cattle under the supervision of a herdsman on their way from one part of a farm to another cross the road (“a cattle crossing”) to convey to oncoming traffic the warning specified in paragraph (2).

(2) The warning conveyed by the sign shall be that—

(a) a cattle crossing lies ahead and may be in use; and

(b) traffic should be prepared to stop.

(3) When the sign is operated, each lamp shall show an intermittent amber light at a rate of flashing of not less than 60 nor more than 90 flashes per minute and in such a manner that one light is always shown when the other light is not shown.

Light signals for pedestrian traffic at level crossings

52

(1) Light signals conveying to pedestrians at level crossings the prohibition specified in paragraph (2) shall be of the size, colour and type shown in diagram 4006 and so designed that—

(a) the red figure shown in diagram 4006 is internally illuminated by an intermittent red light which is shown at a rate of flashing of not less than 60 nor more than 90 flashes per minute;

(b) the red figure is illuminated only when the intermittent red lights prescribed by regulation 39(2)(b) are illuminated; and

(2) The red figure when illuminated in the manner prescribed by paragraph (1) shall convey the prohibition that pedestrians shall not proceed beyond the transverse road marking shown in diagram 1003.2 on the footway or diagram 1001 on the carriageway.

SECTION 6 — MISCELLANEOUS TRAFFIC SIGNS

Temporary signs

53

(1) In this regulation “temporary sign” means a sign placed on or near a road for the purpose of conveying to traffic—

(a) information about convenient routes to be followed on the occasion of—

(i) a sporting event;

(ii) an exhibition; or

(iii) any other public gathering,

which is in each case likely to attract a large volume of traffic;

(b) information about diversions or alternative traffic routes;

(d) information about changes in route numbers;

(e) warnings about, or information on how to avoid, any temporary hazards caused by—

(i) works being executed on or near a road;

(ii) adverse weather conditions or other natural causes;

(iii) the failure of street lighting or malfunction of or damage to any other apparatus, equipment or facility used in connection with the road or anything situated on or near or under it; or

(iv) damage to the road itself; or

(f) requests by the police for information in connection with road traffic accidents.

(2) A temporary sign—

(a) which conveys to traffic any information, warning, requirement, restriction or prohibition of a description which can be conveyed by a sign shown in a diagram in Schedules 1 to 12 (whether on its own or in conjunction or in combination with another such sign) shall be of the size, colour and type shown in that diagram;

(b) which does not fall within paragraph (a) (“a non-prescribed temporary sign”) shall be of such size, colour and type as is specified in paragraphs (3) to (6).

(3) The shape of a non-prescribed temporary sign shall be—

(a) rectangular but with the corners rounded; or

(b) as in sub-paragraph (a) with a rounded point at one end.

(4) A non-prescribed temporary sign shall be of a size appropriate to the circumstances in which it is placed and may incorporate—

(a) wording;

(b) numerals;

(d) any appropriate symbol taken from any diagram in any Schedule; and

(e) the arms, badge or other device of a traffic authority, police authority or an organisation representative of road users.

(5) Every letter and numeral incorporated in a non-prescribed temporary sign other than any letter incorporated in the sign in accordance with paragraph (4)(e) shall be not less than 40 nor more than 350 millimetres in height, and every arrow so incorporated shall be not less than 250 nor more than 1000 millimetres in length.

(6) Every letter, numeral, arrow, chevron or symbol, other than a sign shown in a diagram in Schedules 1 to 5 when used as a symbol, incorporated in a non-prescribed temporary sign shall be—

(a) black on a background of white or of yellow;

(b) white on a blue background;

(d) if the sign conveys information or warnings of the kind mentioned in paragraph (1)(e), white on a red background, except where it is placed on a motorway when it shall be black on a yellow background; or

(e) if the sign is a variable message sign, white, off-white or yellow on a black background or black on a yellow background, except when the sign is not in use when it shall display a plain black or grey face.

Flashing beacons

54

(1) A beacon—

(a) showing an intermittent amber light and placed in combination with a temporary sign within the meaning of regulation 53 or the sign shown in diagram 562, 610, 7001, 7001.3, 7004, 7005, 7009, 7010.1, 7012, 7013, 7019, 7020, 7021, 7022, 7105, 7201, 7202 or 7207 and in compliance with the requirements in paragraph (2); or

(b) showing an intermittent blue light and placed by a constable or a person acting under instructions (whether general or specific) of the chief officer of police in combination with a sign shown in diagram 606, 609, 610, 616, 633, 829.1, 829.2, 829.3, 829.4, 7101.1, 7102 or 7105, and in compliance with (c) and (d) of the requirements in paragraph (2),

shall convey the warning that drivers of vehicles should take special care.

(2) The requirements mentioned in paragraph (1) are—

(a) the peak intensity of light emitted by the lens or lenses of each such beacon shall be—

(i) if the period between individual flashes does not exceed ¼ of a second, not less than 100 candela on the principal axis of the relevant lens;

(ii) if the period between individual flashes exceeds ¼ of a second, not less than 2000 candela on the principal axis; or

(iii) if the period between the cessation of a double flash and the start of the succeeding double flash exceeds ¼ of a second, not less than 1000 candela on the principal axis;

(b) each lens shall be of such a shape and size that the perimeter of its area projected horizontally onto a vertical plane shall be capable of lying wholly inside a square having sides of 200 millimetres in length and wholly outside a square having sides of 100 millimetres in length;

(c) the height of the centre of the lenses from the surface of the carriageway in the immediate vicinity shall be not less than 800 (or in the case of a beacon of the kind mentioned in paragraph (1)(b) 450) nor more than 1500 millimetres; and

(d) the rate of flashing shall be not less than 55 nor more than 150 individual or double flashes per minute.

Road danger lamps

55

(1) A lamp showing a steady or intermittent amber light which—

(a) conforms to—

(i) British Standard Specification BS3143: Part 1: 1985 amended by Amendment No. 1 dated February 1985;

(ii) BS3143: Part 2: 1990 amended by Amendment No. 1 dated November 1993 and Amendment No. 2 dated December 1998; or

(iii) a corresponding EEA Standard; and

(b) is illuminated separately and by a single source of light,

shall indicate to traffic the limits of a temporary obstruction of the road and in this regulation is called a “road danger lamp”.

(2) The height of the centre of each lens of a road danger lamp from the surface of the road in the immediate vicinity of the lamp shall not exceed 1500 millimetres where the speed limit on the road is 40 mph or less, or 1200 millimetres where the speed limit on the road is more than 40 mph.

(3) The rate of flashing of a road danger lamp which shows an intermittent light shall be—

(a) if the lamp is placed not less than 50 metres from a street lamp lit by electricity on a road subject to a speed limit of 40 mph or less, either—

(i) not less than 900 flashes per minute; or

(ii) not less than 55 nor more than 150 flashes per minute;

(b) in any other case not less than 900 flashes per minute.

Cones, delineators and cylinders

56

(1) In this regulation—

“cone” means the sign shown in diagram 7101.1;

“delineator” means the sign shown in diagram 7102;

“cylinder” means the sign shown in diagram 7103.

(2) A cone shall consist of a conically shaped device made of rubber or flexible plastic material in respect of which—

(a) the base is of any single colour; and

(b) the base is a polygon having not more than eight sides, which would be contained wholly within a circle with a diameter of three quarters of the height of the cone.

(3) The part of a cone coloured white shall, subject to paragraph (5), be illuminated with white retroreflecting material and the part coloured red may be illuminated with red retroreflecting material.

(4) Information about the ownership of a cone may be moulded—

(a) into the base in characters not more than 80 mm high in the same colour as the base;

(b) into the conical body in characters not more than 40 mm high in the same colour as that body; or

(5) Information about the manufacture of a cone, required to comply with British Standard Specification BS873: Part 8: 1985 or a corresponding EEA Standard and occupying an area not exceeding 30 square centimetres, may be indicated on the part coloured white in characters not exceeding 5 millimetres in height, leaving at least 90% of the remaining area of white colour illuminated with white retroreflecting material.

(6) A rotating device may be mounted on top of a cone and—

(a) that device shall—

(i) be red and not reflectorised; and

(ii) display one or more signs shown in either diagram 560 or diagram 561; and

(b) those signs shall be coloured amber, intermittently whilst rotating and constantly whilst static.

(7) A delineator shall consist of a flat device—

(a) of which the side intended to be exposed to traffic is coloured as shown in diagram 7102 and the reverse side is either so coloured or coloured only grey or only red;

(b) which is made of rubber or flexible plastic material; and

(c) of which the base is of any single colour, except that a reflectorised white line 100 millimetres wide at an angle of not more than 60 degrees to the road surface may be marked on one side of the base at right angles to the face of the delineator.

(8) The white part of a delineator shall, subject to paragraph (10), be illuminated with white retroreflecting material and the red part (except on the reverse side when that side is coloured only red) may be illuminated with red retroreflecting material.

(9) Information about the ownership of a delineator may be moulded into the base in characters not more than 80 mm high and in the same colour as the base.

(10) Information about the manufacture of a delineator, required in order to comply with British Standard Specification BS 873: Part 8: 1985 or a corresponding EEA Standard and occupying an area not exceeding 30 square centimetres, may be indicated on the part coloured white in characters not exceeding 5 millimetres in height, leaving at least 90% of the remaining area of white colour illuminated with white retroreflecting material.

(11) A cylinder shall consist of a cylindrically shaped device made of rubber or flexible plastic material.

(12) The white part of a cylinder shall, subject to paragraph (14), be illuminated with white retroreflecting material and the part coloured red may be illuminated with red retroreflecting material.

(13) Information about the ownership of a cylinder may be moulded into the lower of the two red parts in red characters not more than 40 mm high.

(14) Information about the manufacture of a cylinder, required in order to comply with British Standard Specification BS873: Part 8: 1985 or a corresponding EEA Standard and occupying an area not exceeding 30 square centimetres, may be indicated on the part coloured white in characters not exceeding 5 millimetres in height, leaving at least 90% of the remaining area of white colour illuminated with white retroreflecting material.

Refuge indicator lamps

57

A lamp in the form of an illuminated spherical globe for conveying the warning that drivers of vehicles are approaching a street refuge may be placed subject to the following conditions—

(a) the globe shall be white;

(b) the globe shall have a diameter of not less than 275 nor more than 335 millimetres; and

(c) the height of the centre of the globe above the surface of the carriageway in the immediate vicinity shall be not less than 3800 millimetres nor more than 5000 millimetres.

Variable message signs

58

(1) In these Regulations a “variable message sign” means a device capable of displaying, at different times, two or more aspects falling within the following descriptions—

(a) a sign shown in a diagram in Schedule 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 11 or 12;

(b) a legend of a type shown in Schedule 15 in accordance with the provisions of that Schedule;

(d) a blank grey or a blank black face.

(2) A variable message sign shall be of a size appropriate to display the messages referred to in sub-paragraphs (a) and (b) of paragraph (1), having regard to the normal speed of traffic on the road on or near which the sign is situated.

(3) If the construction or method of operation of a variable message sign prevents a sign from being displayed in the colours shown for it in the appropriate diagram in Schedule 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 or 12, a black legend or symbol on a white or yellow background may be displayed as a white, off-white or yellow legend or symbol on a dark background, provided that any red triangle or red circle forming part of the sign is included.

(4) A legend or symbol as mentioned in paragraph (3) may be in the form of a white, off-white or yellow outline of the legend or symbol.

(5) The size of any symbol or legend, including any red triangle or circle, displayed on a variable message sign, which is displayed by means of light-emitting characters or symbols, may be varied so that the size of the symbol or legend appears to road users to be the same as it appears to them to be when it is not displayed in this manner.

(6) When a variable message sign displays—

(a) the sign shown in diagram 670;

(b) any sign shown in a diagram in Part I of Schedule 11 except diagrams 6006.2, 6008.1, 6009.3 and 6012; or

it may also display four lamps, which are of the size, colour and type specified in regulation 46(7) and have a rate of flashing of not less than 60 nor more than 150 flashes per minute, and the distance between the lamps shall accord with the overall size of the variable message sign.

(7) Where a variable message sign displays by means of light-emitting characters or symbols—

(a) the sign shown in diagram 504.1, 505.1, 506.1, 507.1, 510, 512, 512.1, 512.2 or 513; or

(b) the sign shown in diagram 670 (when showing the numerals “20”, “30”, “40” or “50”) in such a way that the sign is only visible when associated equipment detects the presence of a vehicle exceeding the speed limit indicated by the sign,

the variable message sign may display, beneath the sign displayed on it, the legend “SLOW DOWN” in characters having a height not less than one quarter of the height of the displayed sign.

(8) The display of a blank black or grey face on a variable message sign accompanied by four flashing lamps of the kind mentioned in paragraph (6) shall indicate to drivers that they should take special care.

(9) A variable message sign which displays alternately the signs shown in diagrams 7023 and 7024 shall be manually operated.

PART II — THE TRAFFIC SIGNS GENERAL DIRECTIONS 2002

Citation and commencement

1

This Part of this Instrument—

(a) may be cited—

(i) as the Traffic Signs General Directions 2002, and

(ii) together with Part I above, as the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2002; and

(b) shall come into force on 31st January 2003.

Revocations

2

The Traffic Signs General Directions 1994⁴³, the Traffic Signs General (Amendment) Directions 1995⁴⁴, the Traffic Signs General (Amendment) (No. 2) Directions 1995⁴⁵ and the Traffic Signs General (Amendment) Directions 1999⁴⁶ are hereby revoked.

Interpretation—general

3

(1) In these Directions—

(a) “one-way road” has the meaning given in paragraph 1 of the Schedule;

(b) “the Regulations” means the Traffic Signs Regulations 2002⁴⁷; and

(2) Those expressions are—

“the 1984 Act”;

“central reservation”;

“contra-flow”;

“controlled parking zone”;

“cycle lane”;

“cycle track”;

“dual carriageway road”;

“EEA Standard”;

“equestrian crossing”;

“junction”;

“level crossing”;

“maximum gross weight”;

“motorway”;

“mph”;

“non-primary route”;

“pedal cycle”;

“pedestrian zone”;

“plate”;

“primary route”;

“primary signals”;

“principal road”;

“reflectorised”;

“retroreflecting material”;

“road marking”;

“route”;

“school crossing place”;

“secondary signals”;

“sign”;

“signal-controlled crossing facility”;

“signal-controlled pedestrian facility”;

“speed limit” and “national speed limit”;

“stud”;

“temporary statutory provision”;

“traffic lane”;

“Toucan crossing”;

“variable message sign”;

“Zebra crossing”; and

“zig-zag line”.

Interpretation of references

4

In these Directions, unless it is expressly provided otherwise or the context otherwise requires—

(a) a reference to a numbered direction is a reference to the direction so numbered in these Directions;

(b) a reference to a numbered paragraph is a reference to the paragraph so numbered in the direction in which the reference occurs;

(c) a reference to a sub-paragraph followed by a number or letter is a reference to the sub-paragraph bearing that number or letter in the direction in which the reference occurs;

(d) a reference to a numbered diagram is a reference to the diagram so numbered in a Schedule to the Regulations;

(e) a reference to a sign shown in a diagram in a Schedule to the Regulations includes a reference to that sign as varied in accordance with the Regulations;

(f) a reference to a numbered regulation or Schedule is a reference to the regulation of, or to the Schedule to, the Regulations so numbered; and

(g) in any direction which includes a table, references to a table are to the table, or in the case of a numbered table to the table so numbered, in that direction.

Saving

5

Any sign, which immediately before the coming into force of these Directions was—

(a) placed on or near any road in conformity with the Traffic Signs General Directions 1994; or

(b) was by virtue of those Directions to be treated as placed in conformity with those Directions,

shall, so long as it would have continued to conform or be treated as conforming with those Directions if they had not been revoked, be treated as if placed in conformity with these Directions, notwithstanding any provision of these Directions to the contrary.

Sign to be placed only at sites approved by the Secretary of State

6

The sign shown in diagram 601.1 shall not be placed for the first time at any site except with the approval of the Secretary of State, the Scottish Ministers or the National Assembly for Wales.

Signs to be placed only to indicate the effect of a statutory prohibition

7

(1) Except as provided by paragraph (3), the signs to which this paragraph applies may be placed on or near a road only to indicate the effect of an Act, order, regulation, byelaw or notice (“the effect of a statutory provision”) which prohibits or restricts the use of the road by traffic.

(2) Paragraph (1) applies to—

(a) the signs shown in diagrams 606, 607, 609, 612, 613, 614, 616, 617, 618, 618.1, 618.2, 618.3, 618.3A, 618.4, 619, 619.1, 619.2, 620, 620.1, 622.1A, 622.2, 622.4, 622.5, 622.6, 622.7, 622.8, 622.9, 625.1, 626.2A, 627.1, 629, 629A, 629.1, 629.2, 629.2A, 632, 636, 636.1, 636.2, 637.1, 637.2, 637.3, 638, 638.1, 639, 639.1B, 640, 640.2A, 640.3, 640.4, 640.5, 642, 642.2A, 642.3, 646, 647, 650.1, 650.2, 650.3, 651, 652, 660, 660.3, 660.4, 660.5, 660.6, 660.7, 661A, 661.1, 661.2A, 661.3A, 661.4, 662, 663, 663.1, 664, 665, 666, 667, 667.1, 667.2, 668, 668.1, 668.2, 670, 671, 672, 673, 674, 675, 804.1, 804.2, 804.3, 804.4, 810, 818.2, 818.3, 818.4, 951, 952, 953, 953.1, 953.2, 954, 954.2, 954.3, 954.4, 954.5, 954.6, 954.7, 955, 956, 957, 958, 958.1, 959, 959.1, 960, 960.1, 961, 962, 962.2, 963, 963.2, 963.3, 964, 969, 1017, 1018.1, 1019, 1020.1, 1028.2, 1028.3 (except when used in conjunction with the sign shown in diagram 786), 1028.4, 1032, 1033, 1036.1, 1036.2, 1037.1, 1046, 1048, 1048.1, 1048.2, 1048.3, 1048.4, 1049, 1049.1, 1050, 1065, 2003, 2007, 2009, 2010.1, 2010.2, 2107, 2108, 2123, 2124, 5001.1, 5001.2, 5003, 5003.1, 5005, 5005.1, 7201, 7201.1, 7203.1, 7204, 7207, 7210, 7211.1, 7212, 7213, 7214, 7215, 7216, 7217, 7218, 7220, 7230, 7231, 7232, 7233, 7234, 7235, 7260, 7261, 7282, 7283, 7283.1, 7284, 7284.1 and 7290; and

(b) any sign which, by virtue of regulation 17 and item 31 of Schedule 16, incorporates as a symbol a sign shown in a diagram specified in sub-paragraph (a).

(3) A sign shown in a diagram specified in an item in column (2) of the Table may be placed at a site or in circumstances specified in column (3) of that item notwithstanding that it does not at that site or in those circumstances indicate the effect of a statutory provision.

(1)	(2)	(3)
Item	Diagram	Site or circumstances
1.	606	On the central island of a roundabout or in combination with a plate of the type shown in diagram 608
2.	609	On a road approaching its junction with a dual carriageway road whether or not in combination with a plate of the type shown in diagram 608
3.	616, 1046	At a site which has been approved by the Secretary of State
4.	629.2, 629.2A	On—a road which passes under or through a bridge, tunnel or other structure which limits the height of vehicles using that road; orany such bridge, tunnel or other structure
5.	2003, 2007, 2009, 2107, 2108 or a sign to which paragraph (1) applies by virtue of paragraph (2)(b)	When—including a symbol representing diagram 629.2 or 629.2A in the circumstances specified in item 4; ornot including a symbol representing a sign to which paragraph (1) applies
6.	818.2, 818.3, 818.4	When placed in the circumstances specified in item 4 above to indicate that the prohibition indicated by the sign shown in diagram 629.2 or 629.2A is ahead

(4) The sign shown in diagram 626.2A may be placed only to indicate the effect of a statutory provision which restricts the use of a road carried by a bridge or other structure—

(a) in the case of vehicles required to be marked with their maximum gross weight, to any vehicle with a maximum gross weight not exceeding that indicated on the sign; or

(b) in the case of vehicles not required to be marked with their maximum gross weight but required to be marked with their unladen weight, to any vehicle with an unladen weight not exceeding the maximum gross weight indicated on the sign.

The placing of certain signs to indicate the beginning of a restriction, requirement, prohibition or speed limit

8

(1) This direction applies to the signs shown in diagrams 616, 617, 618, 618.1, 618.2, 618.3, 618.3A, 619, 619.1, 619.2, 620, 620.1, 622.1A, 622.4, 622.5, 622.6, 622.7, 622.8, 622.9, 625.1, 626.2A, 627.1, 629, 629A, 629.1, 629.2, 629.2A, 632, 642, 646, 663, 663.1, 665, 667, 667.1, 668, 668.1, 670, 672, 674, 951, 952, 953, 953.1, 955, 956 and 957.

(2) In accordance with the following provisions of this direction and the provisions of direction 9, appropriate signs to which this direction applies shall be placed to indicate the point at which a restriction, requirement, prohibition or speed limit applying to traffic on a road (in this direction and in direction 9 called “the relevant road”) begins.

(3) Subject to paragraphs (4), (5) and (6) and to direction 9, a sign to which this direction applies shall be placed on the relevant road at or as near as practicable to the point referred to in paragraph (2)—

(a) where the relevant road has only one carriageway, on each side of that carriageway; or

(b) where the relevant road has more than one carriageway, on each side of each carriageway in relation to which the restriction, requirement, prohibition or speed limit begins.

(4) Where the relevant road has one carriageway, then signs to which this direction applies need only be placed on one side of the relevant road to indicate the point at which a restriction, requirement, prohibition (but not a speed limit) begins in the following cases—

(a) where the restriction, requirement or prohibition applies only to traffic on one side of the relevant road; or

(b) at a junction where—

(i) traffic proceeding on another road on which it is permitted to proceed only in one direction turns into the relevant road; or

(ii) the carriageway of the relevant road is less than 5 metres wide and the sign is so placed that its centre is within 2 metres of the edge of the carriageway.

(5) Where a length of road which passes under or through a bridge, tunnel or other structure is subject to a prohibition on vehicles exceeding a particular height, the sign shown in diagram 629.2 or 629.2A may be placed on the bridge, tunnel or other structure to indicate the prohibition in addition to or instead of the signs required to be placed by paragraph (3).

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