Oncoming Vehicles signs debate

An interesting discussion on the Chatbox has started following this post by Abo525 a few days ago:

"How slow are we in Audlem? I have only just realized that the "oncoming vehicles" sign in Stafford Street opposite no.28 faces the wrong way."

One response says: "I completely agree with Abo525's comment regarding the warning signs being irrelevant to many drivers who pass through Stafford Street. That explains why so often, traffic is seen backing up into the village crossroads when those who choose to ignore the advice find themselves in a frustrating impasse. Stupid is, stupid does!"

The signs have been a source of controversy ever since they were installed over a decade ago as an attempt to reduce the number of 'incidents' – that is blockages caused by vehicles meeting head on in the narrow stretch of Stafford Street,

Somewhat strangely, the only official assessment of the signs' effectiveness, about a year after their installation by the old Cheshire County Council's highways team, said that the number of incidents had increased but then concluded the signs had been a success.

Curiously, the sign did not flash when the photograph was being taken yesterday although a vehicle came up Stafford Street.

The observation that one has been facing the wrong way certainly raises a question about their usefulness and their maintenance, but what do you think? Are you one of the drivers who has stopped in the Square while the sign says 'oncoming vehicle' coming up Stafford Street only to find nothing appears.

Or do you live in Stafford Street and are concerned that your vehicle's presence is not recorded as you entered the road via a side street or driveway.

Or do you think they are really useful and help avoid collisions or traffic jams in Stafford Street? Or are they simply an eyesore outside the beautiful St James' church?

You can join the debate on the Chatbox or send your views to editor@audlem.org

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