The Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2002

PART IITHE 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 1994(1), the Traffic Signs General (Amendment) Directions 1995(2), the Traffic Signs General (Amendment) (No. 2) Directions 1995(3) and the Traffic Signs General (Amendment) Directions 1999(4) 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 2002(5); and

(c)the expressions listed in paragraph (2) have the same meaning as in the Regulations.

(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.

(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).

(6) Paragraphs (3) and (4) shall not apply to the signs shown in diagrams 667, 667.1, 668 and 668.1 which shall be placed on the side of the carriageway on which parking on a verge or footway is permitted and as near as is practicable to the point at which the length of the verge or footway concerned begins.

Beginning of a speed limit—further provisions

9.—(1) Direction 8(3) does not apply where a speed limit in force on the relevant road begins—

(a)at a point where the relevant road begins, being a point where it has no junction with another road; or

(b)at a point where the relevant road has a junction with another road and the same speed limit is in force on both roads.

(2) This paragraph applies where the relevant road has a junction (“the junction”) with the side of another road (“the other road”) and a maximum speed limit is in force on the other road which is different from the speed limit in force on the relevant road.

(3) Where paragraph (2) applies, it is sufficient compliance with direction 8(2), for the purpose of indicating the beginning of the speed limit on the relevant road to traffic entering it from the other road, if the sign shown in diagram 670, 674 or 675 is placed not further than 20 metres from the junction, on the left hand or near side of the carriageway of the relevant road as viewed in the direction of travel of such traffic or, where the relevant road is a dual carriageway road, on the left hand or near side of the carriageway by which traffic may pass into the relevant road from the other road.

(4) Where paragraph (2) applies, for the purpose of indicating the speed limit in force on the other road to traffic entering that road from the relevant road, the sign shown in diagram 670, 674 or 675 shall (subject to paragraph (5)) be placed not further than 20 metres from the junction and so as to be visible to such traffic, on each side of the carriageway by which traffic may pass from the relevant road into the other road.

(5) Paragraph (4) does not apply if—

(a)the maximum speed limit in force on the other road is greater than that in force on the relevant road; and

(b)signs indicating the maximum speed limit have been placed on the other road in accordance with direction 11 on each side of, and not more than 100 metres from, the junction.

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

10.—(1) When the sign shown in diagram 618.4, 622.2, 645, 647, 664, 666, 667.2, 668.2, 673, 675 or 964 is placed to indicate the point at which traffic on a road ceases to be subject to a restriction, requirement, prohibition or speed limit, the sign shall be placed on the road as near as practicable to that point.

(2) Subject to paragraph (3), where a length of road ceases to be subject to a speed limit and becomes subject to a national speed limit, the sign shown in diagram 671 shall be placed at or as near as practicable to the point where the speed limit ends and the national speed limit begins.

(3) Where a temporary restriction of speed has been imposed under section 14 of the 1984 Act along a length of road by reason of works which are being or are proposed to be executed on or near that road, there shall be placed at or as near as practicable to the point where the temporary restriction of speed ends—

(a)the sign shown in diagram 7006 or in diagram 7001 (placed in combination with the plate shown in diagram 645); and

(b)in a case where, but for the temporary speed limit, a change in speed limit would at some point have occurred along the length of road, the sign shown in diagram 670 (varied as appropriate) or 671.

(4) When the sign shown in diagram 671, 673 or 675 is placed to indicate the point at which traffic on a road ceases to be subject to a speed limit—

(a)where the road has only one carriageway, one such sign shall be placed on each side of the carriageway of the road; or

(b)where the road has more than one carriageway, one such sign shall be placed on each side of each carriageway on which the speed limit ends.

(5) Where a road (“the relevant road”) has a junction with the side of another road (“the other road”) and—

(a)a maximum speed limit is in force on the other road; and

(b)a national speed limit is in force on the relevant road,

then, for the purpose of indicating the national speed limit to traffic entering the relevant road from the other road, the sign shown in diagram 671 or 675 shall be placed on the relevant road in accordance with paragraph (6).

(6) The sign shall be placed not more than 20 metres from the junction with the other road on the left hand or near side of the relevant road as viewed in the direction of travel of a vehicle entering the relevant road from the other road or, if the relevant road is a dual carriageway road, on the left hand or near side of the carriageway by which a vehicle may pass into the relevant road from the other road.

(7) Where the relevant road has a junction with the side of the other road and—

(a)a national speed limit is in force on the other road; and

(b)a maximum speed limit is in force on the relevant road,

then, for the purpose of indicating the national speed limit to traffic entering the other road from the relevant road, traffic signs shown in diagram 671 or 675 shall be placed in accordance with paragraph (8) on the relevant road not further than 20 metres from the junction.

(8) If the relevant road has one carriageway, one such sign shall be placed on each side of that carriageway and, if the relevant road is a dual carriageway road, one such sign shall be placed on each side of the carriageway by which traffic may pass from the relevant road into the other road.

Repeater signs

11.—(1) Paragraph (2) applies to the signs shown in diagrams 614, 632, 636, 636.1, 636.2, 637.1, 637.2, 637.3, 638, 638.1 when the arrow is omitted, 639 when the arrow is omitted, 639.1B, 640 when the arrow is omitted, 642, 646, 650.1, 650.2, 650.3, 660, 660.3, 660.4, 660.5, 660.6, 661A, 661.1, 662, 670 (except when displayed on a variable message sign in the manner mentioned in regulation 58(7)(b)), 672, 956, 957, 959, 959.1, 960, 960.1 and 961.

(2) Subject to paragraphs (3) and (4), signs to which this paragraph applies shall be placed at regular intervals along a road which is subject to a restriction, requirement, prohibition or speed limit which can be indicated by the signs.

(3) Signs shown in diagram 670 when varied to “20” need not be placed in accordance with paragraph (2) on a road within an area into which each entrance for vehicular traffic has been indicated by the sign shown in diagram 674.

(4) The sign shown in diagram 670 (except when displayed on a variable message sign in the manner mentioned in regulation 58(7)(b)) shall not be placed along—

(a)a road on which there is provided a system of carriageway lighting furnished by lamps lit by electricity placed not more than 183 metres apart in England and Wales or not more than 185 metres apart in Scotland and which is subject to a speed limit of 30 mph; or

(b)a motorway on which a national speed limit is in force.

(5) The sign shown in diagram 671 shall be placed at regular intervals along the length of a road (other than a motorway) on which—

(a)there is a system of street or carriageway lighting furnished by lamps lit by electricity placed not more than 183 metres apart in England and Wales or not more than 185 metres apart in Scotland; and

(b)a national speed limit is in force.

Signs to be placed only on specified types of road

12.—(1) The signs shown in diagrams 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2005.1, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010.1, 2010.2, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2021.1, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2030, 2030.1, 2032, 2033, 2034, 2035 and 2717 may be placed only on or near a primary route.

(2) The signs shown in diagrams 2026, 2027, 2027.1, 2028 and 2029 may be placed only on a primary route, or on a non-primary route at a junction with a primary route.

13.—(1) The signs shown in diagrams 2101, 2101.1, 2101.2, 2102, 2102.1, 2103, 2104, 2105.1, 2106.1, 2107, 2108, 2109, 2110, 2111, 2111.1, 2112, 2113, 2113.1, 2114, 2114.1, 2115, 2115.1, 2116, 2117, 2118, 2119, 2120, 2121, 2122, 2123, 2124, 2124.1, 2128, 2129, 2130, 2131, 2133, 2135, 2137.1, 2138 and 2139 may be placed only on or near a non-primary route.

(2) The signs shown in diagrams 2125, 2126, 2126.1, 2127, 2132, 2134, 2136, 2137, 2140, 2322 and 2323 may be placed only on or near a non-primary route, or on a primary route at a junction with a non-primary route.

(3) The signs shown in diagrams 1012.3, 2031, 2201, 2202, 2203, 2204, 2205, 2208, 2209, 2210, 2211, 2212, 2213, 2214, 2215, 2216, 2217, 2218, 2301, 2302, 2303, 2304, 2305, 2306, 2307, 2308.1, 2309.1, 2310.1, 2311.1, 2311.2, 2313.1, 2313.2, 2313.3, 2313.4, 2313.5, 2313.6, 2314.1, 2314.2, 2324, 2325, 2326, 2327, 2328, 2329, 2330, 2401, 2402.1, 2403.1, 2501, 2502, 2504, 2505, 2505.1, 2506, 2507, 2508, 2509.1, 2510, 2511, 2512, 2513, 2601.1, 2601.2, 2602.1, 2602.2, 2602.3, 2603, 2604, 2605, 2606, 2607, 2608, 2609, 2610, 2610.1, 2610.2, 2701, 2701.1, 2702, 2703, 2704, 2705, 2706, 2707, 2708, 2709, 2710, 2712, 2713.1, 2801, 2802, 2803, 2804, 2805, 2806, 2806.1, 7031, 7242 and 7285 may not be placed on a motorway.

(4) The sign shown in diagram 2141 may only be placed on or near a minor route at a junction with another minor route and, for this purpose, “minor route” means any road except a road to which the Secretary of State, the Scottish Ministers or the National Assembly for Wales has assigned a number prefixed by the letter A, B or M.

14.—(1) The signs shown in diagrams 832.3, 1012.2, 1064, 2901, 2903, 2904, 2904.1, 2905, 2906, 2908, 2908.1, 2909, 2910, 2910.1, 2911, 2912, 2913, 2913.1, 2913.2, 2913.3, 2913.4, 2914, 2914.1, 2915, 2917, 2918, 2918.1, 2919.1, 2920.1, 2921, 2921.1, 2922, 2924, 2925, 2926, 2927, 2927.1, 2928, 2929, 2929.1, 2930, 2931, 2932, 2933, 2934, 7241 and 7286 may be placed only on or near a motorway.

(2) The signs shown in diagrams 2902 and 2902.1 may be placed only on a motorway or on another road at a junction with a motorway.

15.—(1) The signs shown in diagrams 823, 824, 825, 868, 868.1, 872.1, 873, 874, 875, 876 and 2713 may be placed only on or near—

(a)a motorway when the colour of the background of the sign is blue;

(b)a primary route when the colour of the background of the sign is green; or

(c)a non-primary route when the colour of the background of the sign is white.

(2) The sign shown in diagram 872.1 may only be placed on a dual carriageway road or a one-way road.

(3) The sign shown in diagram 877 may be placed only on or near—

(a)a motorway exit slip road when the colour of the background of the sign is blue;

(b)a primary route when the colour of the background of the sign is green; or

(c)a non-primary route when the colour of the background of the sign is white.

Speed limits of 20 mph

16.—(1) The sign shown in diagram 674 may only be placed on a road if no point on any road (not being a cul-de-sac less than 80 metres long), to which the speed limit indicated by the sign applies, is situated more than 50 metres from a traffic calming feature.

(2) In paragraph (1) “traffic calming feature” means—

(a)a road hump constructed pursuant to section 90A of the Highways Act 1980(6) (“the 1980 Act”) or section 36 of the Roads (Scotland) Act 1984(7) (“the 1984 Act”) and in accordance with the Highways (Road Humps) Regulations 1999(8) or the Road Humps (Scotland) Regulations 1998(9);

(b)traffic calming works constructed in accordance with section 90G of the 1980 Act(10) or section 39A of the 1984 Act(11) and in accordance with the Highways (Traffic Calming) Regulations 1999(12) or the Roads (Traffic Calming) (Scotland) Regulations 1994(13);

(c)a refuge for pedestrians which was constructed pursuant to section 68 of the 1980 Act or section 27(c) of the 1984 Act after 15th June 1999 and is so constructed as to encourage a reduction in the speed of traffic using the carriageway;

(d)a variation of the relative widths of the carriageway or of any footway pursuant to section 75 of the 1980 Act or section 1(1) or 2(1) of the 1984 Act which—

(i)was carried out after 15th June 1999 for the purpose of encouraging a reduction in the speed of traffic using the carriageway; and

(ii)had the effect of reducing the width of the carriageway; or

(e)a horizontal bend in the carriageway through which all vehicular traffic has to change direction by no less than 70 degrees within a distance of 32 metres as measured at the inner kerb radius.

(3) For the purposes of paragraph (1) the distance of 50 metres shall be measured along roads to which the speed limit indicated by the sign shown in diagram 674 applies.

Signs to be placed only in conjunction with specified road markings (except signs for prohibitions and restrictions on waiting etc)

17.—(1) Save as provided in paragraph (2), a sign shown in a diagram whose number appears and is placed in the circumstances (if any) or is in the form (if any) specified in column (2) of an item in the Table may be placed on a road only—

(a)in conjunction with the road marking shown in the diagram whose number appears and is in the form (if any) specified in column (3) of that item; or

(b)where the numbers of two or more road markings so appear, in conjunction with both or all of those markings.

(2) The provisions of paragraph (1) requiring the placing of the sign shown in diagram 601.1, 602 or 611.1 in conjunction with a road marking shall not apply during the execution of works on a road near the sign—

(a)if those works necessitate the temporary removal of the marking; or

(b)if the sign is placed only temporarily in connection with the execution of works on a road.

Road markings to be placed only in conjunction with other road markings or specified signs (except road markings for prohibitions and restrictions on waiting etc)

18.—(1) A road marking shown in a diagram whose number appears and is placed in the circumstances (if any) specified in column (2) of an item in Table 1 may be placed on a road only in conjunction with a road marking or sign shown in a diagram whose number appears and is in the form, or is placed in the manner or circumstances (if any), specified in column (3) of that item.

(2) The road marking shown in diagram 1001.2 may be placed only at a junction where traffic is regulated by light signals of the kind prescribed by regulation 33(1).

(3) A road marking shown in a diagram whose number appears in column (2) of an item in Table 2 may be placed on a road only in conjunction with the combination of road markings or signs specified in column (3) of that item.

(4) The road marking shown in diagram 1048.3 may be placed on a road if and only if it is placed in conjunction with either—

(a)a combination of the sign shown in diagram 616 and the sign shown in diagram 954 or 954.2; or

(b)the sign shown in diagram 953 varied to show only the bus symbol.

(5) A road marking shown in diagram 1003 or 1023 when varied in size to conform with any of the smaller dimensions prescribed for it may be placed on a road only in conjunction with the marking shown in diagram 1057 and with one or more of the signs shown in diagrams 955, 956 and 957, or where a contra-flow cycle lane ends at a junction with another road.

(6) The road marking shown in diagram 1009 when varied in size to conform with the smallest dimensions prescribed for it may be placed on a road only to mark the junction of a cycle track and another road and in conjunction with the road markings shown in diagrams 1003 and 1023 and having the smaller dimensions prescribed for them.

(7) The road marking shown in diagram 1064 may be placed on the carriageway of a road if and only if—

(a)it is placed as one of a series of such markings placed 40 metres apart;

(b)the carriageway on which a marking is placed has more than one traffic lane and such a series is placed in each lane;

(c)each series includes the same number of markings; and

(d)a straight line drawn across the carriageway at right angles to the direction of travel and passing through a marking would pass through a marking on each of the other traffic lanes of the carriageway.

The placing of the signs shown in diagrams 615 and 811

19.  The signs shown in diagrams 615 and 811 may be placed on a road only in conjunction with one another.

Signs to be placed only in combination with specified plates or other signs

20.—(1) A sign shown in a diagram whose number appears and is placed in the circumstances (if any) specified in column (2) of an item in the Table may be placed on a road only in combination with a plate shown in the diagram whose number appears in column (3) of that item.

(2) The sign shown in diagram 545 may be placed on a road only if it is used either—

(a)in combination with the plate shown in diagram 546, 547.1, 547.2, 547.3 or 547.7; or

(b)in combination with the plate shown in diagram 546, 547.1 or 547.7 and with the light signals shown in diagram 4004.

(3) The sign shown in diagram 515 (when placed on the central island of a roundabout), 515.1A or 515.2 may be placed on a road only in combination with the sign shown in diagram 606.

Plates to be placed only in combination with specified signs

21.—(1) A plate shown in a diagram whose number appears and is in the form (if any) specified in an item in column (2) of the Table may be placed on a road only in combination with a sign shown in a diagram whose number appears and is placed in the circumstances (if any) specified in column (3) of that item.

(2) A plate shown in diagram 954.3 or 954.4 or the sign shown in diagram 954.6 or 954.7 shall not be placed in combination with the sign shown in diagram 616.

Placing of road markings and signs to indicate prohibitions and restrictions on waiting, loading and unloading and parking

22.—(1) Subject to paragraphs (2) and (3)—

(a)the road marking shown in diagram 1018.1 may be placed on a side of a road only for the purpose of indicating a statutory prohibition or restriction on the waiting of vehicles which applies on that side of the road at all times of day on every day of the year or on every day in a period of at least four consecutive months; and

(b)the road marking shown in diagram 1017 may be placed on a side of a road only for the purpose of indicating a statutory prohibition or restriction on the waiting of vehicles which is not a restriction of the kind mentioned in sub-paragraph (a).

(2) In this direction, references to a statutory prohibition or restriction on the waiting of a vehicle do not include references to any such prohibition or restriction imposed—

(a)on waiting for the purpose of loading or unloading goods from a vehicle or picking up or setting down passengers from a vehicle;

(b)and expressly to limit the duration of waiting of vehicles within a particular period; or

(c)on the waiting of goods vehicles (as defined by section 192(1) of the Road Traffic Act 1988(14)) but of no other class of vehicle.

(3) The road marking shown in diagram 1017 or 1018.1 shall not be placed on a road on which is placed—

(a)the marking shown in diagram 1025.1, 1025.3, 1025.4 or 1028.2 (in conjunction with the sign shown in diagram 650.1); or

(b)the marking shown in diagram 1027.1 in conjunction with the sign shown in diagram 642.2A, unless there are times at which the restrictions to be indicated by the marking shown in diagram 1017 or 1018.1 apply and those indicated by that sign do not.

23.—(1) The road marking shown in diagram 1020.1 may be placed on a side of the carriageway of a road only for the purpose of indicating a statutory prohibition or restriction on the waiting of vehicles for the purpose of their being loaded or unloaded which applies on that side of the road at all times of the day on every day of the year or on every day in a period of at least four consecutive months.

(2) The road marking shown in diagram 1019 may be placed on a side of the carriageway of a road only for the purpose of indicating a statutory prohibition or restriction on the waiting of vehicles for the purpose of their being loaded or unloaded (but not for indicating a statutory prohibition or restriction which expressly limits the duration of waiting by vehicles within a particular period for that purpose) which is not a restriction of the kind mentioned in paragraph (1).

24.—(1) Except where it is placed to indicate the effect of a temporary statutory provision and subject to paragraph (2), a sign shown in a diagram specified in column (2) of an item in the Table shall not be placed except—

(a)on or near the side of a road; and

(b)in conjunction with, and on the same side of the road as, a road marking which is shown in a diagram and is in the form (if any) indicated in column (3) of that item.

(2) Paragraph (1) shall not apply to the signs shown in diagrams 637.3, 639 and 640 when placed to indicate restrictions applying to the same road as restrictions indicated by the sign shown in diagram 650.1, 974 or 975.

(3) Subject to paragraph (4) the sign shown in diagram 637.2 may be placed only on a road within a pedestrian zone where the sign shown in diagram 618.3 or 618.3A is placed at each entrance into the zone for vehicular traffic.

(4) The sign shown in diagram 637.2 shall not be used on a road within the pedestrian zone to which the sign relates except in conjunction with—

(a)the road marking shown in diagram 1017 or 1018.1 unless—

(i)the road does not comprise a carriageway and footway which are separately defined;

(ii)the entry of vehicular traffic into the pedestrian zone is restricted at the same times as those at which the waiting of vehicles is prohibited as indicated on the upper panel of the sign in diagram 637.2; and

(iii)the prohibition on the waiting of vehicles applies uniformly throughout every road in the zone, and

(b)where there is a prohibition on the loading and unloading of vehicles, the road marking shown in diagram 1019 or 1020.1 unless—

(i)the road does not comprise a carriageway and footway which are separately defined;

(ii)the entry of vehicular traffic into the pedestrian zone is restricted at the same times as those at which the loading and unloading of vehicles is prohibited as indicated on the lower panel of the sign in diagram 637.2; and

(iii)the prohibition on the loading and unloading of vehicles applies uniformly throughout every road in the zone.

25.—(1) Subject to paragraph (2) a road marking shown in a diagram whose number appears and is in the form (if any) specified in an item in column (2) of the Table may be placed on a road only in conjunction with, and on the same side of the road as, a sign shown in a diagram whose number appears and in the form specified (if any) in column (3) of that item.

(2) Paragraph (1) shall not apply to a road marking placed on a road within a controlled parking zone, if signs shown in diagram 663 or 663.1 have been placed at the entrances for vehicular traffic into the zone, except where the road marking is placed to indicate restrictions different from the restrictions indicated on those signs.

26.  The sign shown in diagram 663, 663.1, 664, 665 or 666 may be placed only at the boundary of a controlled parking zone.

Signs to be placed only at specified sites or for specified purposes

27.  The sign shown in diagram 545, when placed in combination with—

(a)the plate shown in diagram 547.1; or

(b)the plate shown in diagram 546, 547.1 or 547.7 together with the light signal shown in diagram 4004,

may be placed only at or near a school crossing place.

28.  The sign shown in diagram 551.1 may be placed on or near a road only—

(a)at a site which is approved as a migratory toad crossing by or on behalf of the Secretary of State; and

(b)during February, March, April and May in each year.

29.  The sign shown in diagram 574 may be placed only in or near an infected place or area for the purposes of the Animal Health Act 1981(15) and shall be removed as soon as it ceases to be in or near such a place or area.

30.  The sign shown in diagram 601.1 may be placed on or near a road at a junction with another road only if a sign has not been placed on the other road so as to control traffic passing through the junction on that other road.

31.  The sign shown in diagram 833, 834, 835 or 836 may be placed only to regulate the movement of vehicular traffic into and out of premises with more than one access to a road.

32.—(1) The sign shown in diagram 878 or 879 may be placed only in an area or along a route where enforcement cameras are from time to time in use.

(2) The sign shown in diagram 880 may be placed only—

(a)on or near a road on which there is provided a system of carriageway lighting furnished by means of lamps placed not more than 183 metres apart in England and Wales or 185 metres apart in Scotland and which is subject to a speed limit of 30 mph; and

(b)not more than one kilometre from a site at which an enforcement camera has been installed and is from time to time in use, and

not more than one such sign may be so placed on each approach to that site.

33.  The sign shown in diagram 957 may be placed on a road only when the road has been divided into a part reserved for the use of pedal cycles only and a part reserved for use by pedestrians only by either or both of the following means—

(a)the road marking shown in diagram 1049 (when that marking is varied to be 150 millimetres wide) or 1049.1;

(b)the presence on the road of works such as distinctive colouring of the surface of each part, a kerb or other device.

34.—(1) The marking shown in diagram 1003 may be placed on or near a road only in the following cases—

(a)at a junction with another road on which no marking has been placed to control traffic passing through the junction on that other road;

(b)at a roundabout in conjunction with the sign shown in diagram 602 and the road marking shown in diagram 1023;

(c)at a level crossing in the circumstances described in regulation 25(3);

(d)in the circumstances described in regulation 25(4), when such a marking has not been placed to control vehicles travelling in the opposite direction.

(2) The marking shown in diagram 1003 may only be placed on the carriageway of a road in circumstances such that regulation 25(6) (transverse lines placed in advance of a cycle track crossing a road) applies, if the length of the road which is crossed by a cycle track consists of a road hump extending across the full width of the carriageway and constructed pursuant to—

(a)section 90A of the Highways Act 1980(16) and in accordance with the Highways (Road Humps) Regulations 1999(17); or

(b)section 36 of the Roads (Scotland) Act 1984(18) and in accordance with the Road Humps (Scotland) Regulations 1998(19).

35.  The road marking shown in diagram 1043 or 1044 shall not be placed to indicate an area of carriageway on a roundabout unless the entry of traffic into the roundabout is at all times controlled by traffic light signals.

Restrictions on the placing of temporary signs

36.  The signs shown in Schedule 12, other than in diagrams 7014, 7019, 7020, 7032 and 7103, may be placed only in connection with the execution of works on or near a road or a temporary obstruction thereon, and any such sign so placed and any other sign shown in a diagram in Schedules 1 to 11 so placed shall not be retained on or near the road after the completion of the works or the removal of the obstruction, as the case may be, unless—

(a)it is a sign of the type shown in diagram 7009, in which case that sign may be retained on or near a road after the completion of the works for so long as the traffic authority for the road thinks fit; or

(b)it is a sign of the type shown in diagram 7012 bearing the words “NO GIVE WAY MARKINGS” or “NO STOP MARKINGS”, in which case that sign shall be removed as soon as the road markings have been replaced and in any event not later than 28 days after the completion of the works.

37.—(1) The sign shown in diagram 790 or 7014—

(a)may be placed only in connection with works involving—

(i)an alteration in the layout of the carriageway of a road or level crossing; or

(ii)the placing, removal or alteration of traffic signs on or near a road or at a level crossing; and

(b)may be retained not later than the end of the period of 3 months beginning with completion of those works.

(2) The sign shown in diagram 7032—

(a)may be placed only to indicate the point at which a recently imposed speed limit of 30 mph begins on a road—

(i)on which there is a system of street or carriageway lighting furnished by lamps lit by electricity placed not more than 183 metres apart in England and Wales or not more than 185 metres apart in Scotland; and

(ii)which had previously been subject to a higher speed limit;

(b)shall be placed as near as practicable to that point;

(c)shall not be placed unless that point could not otherwise be indicated in accordance with these Directions;

(d)may be placed only during the period of 6 months beginning with the day on which the 30 mph speed limit comes into force; and

(e)shall not be retained after the end of that period.

38.—(1) No sign of the kind referred to in regulation 53 may be retained at any place for more than 6 months (or in the case of a sign of the kind referred to in regulation 53(1)(d) for more than 2 years) or such longer period as the Secretary of State may approve after the placing of the sign there or in any event after the sign has ceased to be needed at that place.

(2) The sign shown in diagram 2701 or 2701.1 may be retained on or near a road for not more than six months after completion of the housing development to which it refers.

39.—(1) The sign shown in diagram 7023 or 7024 may be placed on or near a road only where—

(a)one-way working is necessary along a length of road because part of the width of the carriageway has been temporarily closed to traffic; and

(b)either—

(i)there is no junction with another road along that length; or

(ii)the traffic authority has given express written approval to the placing of the sign in relation to a length of road having a junction with another road.

(2) The sign shown in diagram 543 may be placed in combination with the plate shown in diagram 7030 only on or near a road on which convoy working is in operation and indicated by one or more of the signs shown in diagrams 7025, 7026, 7027, 7028 and 7029.

(3) The sign shown in diagram—

(a)554 when varied to “Flood” or “No smoking”;

(b)554.2 when placed in conjunction with the plate shown in diagram 554.3; or

(c)562 when placed in combination with the plate shown in diagram 563 when indicating “Accident” or when varied to “Census”, “Dust cloud”, “Fallen tree”, “Frost damage”, “Overhead cable repairs”, “Runners in road”, “Smoke” or “Walkers in road”,

may be retained only for so long as the hazard indicated by the sign continues to exist or is expected to recur in the near future.

(4) The sign shown in diagram 633, 636.2 (except when varied to show the name of a traffic authority), 829.1, 829.2, 829.3, 829.4, 829.5 or 1063 may be placed on or near a road only by a constable in uniform or a person acting under the instructions or authority of the chief officer of police.

(5) The sign shown in diagram 829.5 may only be placed on or near a road in an area where police speed checks are from time to time carried out.

(6) The sign shown in diagram 830, 830.1, 830.3, 831 or 832 may be placed on or near a road in connection with a traffic census, if and only if the taking of that census on that road has been approved—

(a)by the traffic authority for the road;

(b)by the chief officer of police of the police area in which the road is situated; and

(c)by or on behalf of the Secretary of State.

(7) The sign shown in diagram 950 may be placed in combination with the plate shown in diagram 950.1—

(a)when the plate is varied to “Cycle event”, only while a cycle rally or similar event is in progress;

(b)in any other case except when the plate is varied to “Cycles crossing”, only while the training or testing of child cyclists is in progress.

Placing of signs varied to show metric units

40.—(1) Where the indication given by the sign shown in diagram 629.1 is varied in accordance with regulation 17 and item 2 of Schedule 16, that sign may be placed only in combination with another sign of the same type whose indication has not been so varied.

(2) Paragraph (1) shall also apply when the sign shown in diagram 629.1 is incorporated as a symbol into another sign.

Mounting and backing of signs

41.—(1) Subject to paragraphs (2) and (3), where a sign (other than a sign referred to in paragraph (4), (5) or in direction 43 or 44) in a diagram in Schedules 1 to 5 and 7, Part II of Schedule 10 or Schedule 12, or a sign of the type prescribed by regulation 53, is mounted on a post or other support specially provided for the purpose (“the post”), that part of the post which extends above ground level shall be of any single colour or in its natural colour.

(2) Where the post is not likely to be readily visible to pedestrians or cyclists, a yellow or white band not less than 140 nor more than 160 millimetres deep may be provided on the post, the lower edge of the band being not less than 1500 nor more than 1700 millimetres above ground level.

(3) Where the support provided for a portable sign comprises several components, instead of complying with paragraphs (1) and (2), the components need not all be of the same colour provided that each is of a single colour or in its natural colour.

(4) Where a beacon or lamp of a kind prescribed by regulation 54 or 55 is mounted on a structure specially provided for the purpose, the structure shall be coloured grey, red, white or yellow, or in alternate bands of red and white or of black and white.

(5) The post provided for the mounting of the sign shown in diagram 7031 shall be coloured in alternate black and yellow bands each 300 millimetres deep with a black band uppermost below the bottom of the sign face, and the yellow bands may be reflectorised.

(6) The sign shown in diagram 7104 or 7105 may be mounted on an object of the size, colour and type of the sign shown in diagram 7101.1.

(7) An identification code for maintenance purposes may be indicated, in characters not exceeding 25 millimetres in height, on the post on which a sign is mounted.

42.—(1) The back of any sign shown in a diagram in Schedules 1 to 5, 7, Part II of Schedule 10 or in Schedule 12, or prescribed by regulation 53, other than the sign shown in diagram 651, 970, 971, 972, 973.2, 973.3, 2610, 2610.1, 2610.2, 7101.1, 7102, 7103, 7104 or 7105 shall be coloured—

(a)black if the sign is mounted on the same post as that on which light signals prescribed by regulation 33(1) (or those signals as varied in accordance with regulation 34) or light signals prescribed by regulation 33(2) and regulation 35 are mounted; or

(b)grey, black or in a non-reflective metallic finish in any other case, except that—

(i)information about sites for placing and the ownership of the sign and an identification code for maintenance purposes may be indicated on the back of the sign in characters not exceeding 25 millimetres in height, where they are shown in a contrasting colour, or in characters not exceeding 50 millimetres in height, where they are embossed in the same colour; and

(ii)information about the manufacture of the sign required in order to comply with British Standard Specification BS 873 or a corresponding EEA Standard, occupying an area not exceeding 30 square centimetres, may be indicated on the back of the sign in characters not exceeding 5 millimetres in height.

(2) Paragraph (1) shall apply to the back of any backing board or other fitting provided for the assembly of such a sign as is referred to in paragraph (1) (including any container enclosing apparatus for the illumination of such a sign).

(3) The back of the sign shown in diagram 7104 or 7105 shall be coloured grey, red, white, black or yellow, except that—

(a)information about sites for placing and the ownership of the sign may be indicated on the back of the sign in characters not exceeding 50 millimetres in height, where they are shown in a contrasting colour, or in characters not exceeding 80 millimetres in height, where they are embossed in the same colour; and

(b)information about the manufacture of the sign required in order to comply with British Standard Specification BS 873 or a corresponding EEA Standard, occupying an area not exceeding 30 square centimetres, may be indicated on the back of the sign in characters not exceeding 5 millimetres in height.

(4) The back of the sign shown in diagram 651, 970, 971, 972, 973.2, 973.3, 2610, 2610.1 or 2610.2 may be of any colour.

(5) The front of any backing board for a sign mounted otherwise than as described in paragraph (1)(a) shall be coloured either grey or yellow.

(6) A yellow backing board for a sign (except one for the sign shown in diagram 2402.1) shall be rectangular in shape.

(7) A backing board for the sign shown in diagram 2402.1 may be of any shape including rectangular.

(8) The sign shown in diagram 2403.1 shall not be mounted on a backing board with any other sign.

(9) In this direction “backing board” in relation to a sign includes any background (except a wall to which the sign is affixed) against which the sign is displayed.

Mounting of the sign shown in diagram 781

43.  The sign shown in diagram 781 shall be mounted on two posts and so much of each post as extends above ground level shall be coloured black and white in alternate horizontal bands, each band being not less than 250 nor more than 335 millimetres deep.

Mounting of the signs shown in diagrams 560 and 561

44.—(1) The sign shown in diagram 560 or 561 shall be so placed that the top of the sign is not less than 550 nor more than 1000 millimetres above the surface of the adjacent carriageway.

(2) Where the sign shown in diagram 560 or 561 is mounted on a post specially provided for the purpose that part of the post which extends above ground level may be—

(a)of any single colour; or

(b)coloured black and white in alternate horizontal bands, each band being not less than 225 nor more than 350 millimetres deep.

(3) The signs shown in diagrams 560 and 561 shall be so erected as to display—

(a)the colour red on the left hand edge of the carriageway as viewed by the drivers of approaching vehicles; and

(b)the colour white on the right hand edge of the carriageway when so viewed, unless the edge is the edge of the carriageway of a dual carriageway road or a one-way road when the colour amber shall be displayed.

Mounting of refuge indicator lamps

45.—(1) This paragraph applies where the lamp prescribed by regulation 57 is mounted on a post specially provided for the purpose.

(2) Subject to paragraph (4), if the post is placed at a zebra crossing and yellow globes are attached to the post, the part of the post between ground level and the point where the yellow globes are mounted or attached shall be coloured black and white in alternate horizontal bands and—

(a)the lowest band shall be coloured black and not less than 275 millimetres nor more than 1 metre deep; and

(b)each other band shall be not less than 275 nor more than 335 millimetres deep, and

the remaining part of the post shall be coloured in accordance with paragraph (3).

(3) Subject to paragraph (4), if the post is placed elsewhere or at a zebra crossing, but without yellow globes attached to it, the post shall be coloured grey or black but with two white bands (each band being not less than 275 nor more than 335 millimetres deep) so arranged that—

(a)not less than 275 nor more than 335 millimetres extend between the nearest edges of the two bands; and

(b)the upper edge of the uppermost band is not less than 275 nor more than 335 millimetres below the lowest part of the lamp,

and the white bands may be internally illuminated.

(4) Where the post consists of aluminium, concrete or galvanised metal it may remain in its natural colour.

(5) In this direction “yellow globes” means globes in relation to which Part I of Schedule 1 to the Zebra, Pelican and Puffin Pedestrian Crossings Regulations 1997(20) is complied with.

Mounting and backing of light signals, matrix signs and warning lights

46.—(1) The light signals prescribed by regulation 33, 34, 35, 37, 39, 41, 44, 45, 47, 48, 49 or 52, the matrix signals prescribed by regulation 46 and the warning lights prescribed by regulations 50 and 51 may be placed on or near a road only if they are so placed that they face the stream of traffic to which they are intended to convey the warnings, information, requirements, restrictions or prohibitions prescribed by the Regulations.

(2) A container enclosing the lamps of a type of light signals, matrix sign or warning light mentioned in paragraph (1) shall be coloured black except that—

(a)if a container encloses lamps of the light signals prescribed by regulation 37, 44 or 45, the matrix sign prescribed by regulation 46 or the warning lights prescribed by regulation 50 or 51, it may be coloured grey instead of black;

(b)the back of a container enclosing the signals shown in diagrams 4003, 4003.1, 4003.3, 4003.4, 4003.6 or 4003.7 may be coloured yellow; and

(c)the container may have a white border not less than 45 nor more than 55 millimetres wide.

(3) Any of the kinds of light signals mentioned in paragraph (1) other than the signals prescribed by regulation 39(1) may be mounted on a backing board, which shall be coloured black and may have a white border not less than 45 nor more than 55 millimetres wide.

(4) In the case of the light signals prescribed by regulation 39(1) the back of the backing board shown in diagram 3014 may be coloured black or grey.

(5) In the case of the matrix signs prescribed by regulation 46, an identification number may be shown on the front of the backing board below the signal or on the post on which the signal is mounted and, in the case of other light signals, an identification number and name, and a telephone number for use in an emergency, may be shown on the post on which the signals are mounted.

(6) Without prejudice to paragraph (8) and subject to the exceptions in paragraph (7), where light signals prescribed by any of the regulations specified in paragraph (1) or shown in a diagram in Part I of Schedule 10 or in Schedule 11 are mounted on a post specially provided for the purpose, that part of the post which extends above ground level shall be either—

(a)coloured grey, black, brown, dark green or dark blue; or

(b)in a non-reflective metallic finish.

(7) Paragraph (6) is subject to the following exceptions—

(a)the post may be marked with a yellow or white band not less than 140 nor more than 160 millimetres deep, the lower edge of the band being not less than 1500 nor more than 1700 millimetres above ground level; and

(b)where the light signals prescribed by regulation 33(1) or (2) are installed temporarily, the containers in which the posts are placed may be coloured with alternate red and white horizontal stripes.

(8) The portable light signals prescribed by regulation 35, instead of being mounted on a post coloured in accordance with paragraph (6), may be mounted on a post coloured yellow (but having no yellow or white band as specified in paragraph (7)) or on a tripod or other support coloured yellow.

Placing of road marking shown in diagram 1001 or 1001.2 in conjunction with light signals

47.—(1) The light signals prescribed by regulation 33(1) may be placed only in conjunction with the road marking shown in diagram 1001 or, subject to direction 18(2), 1001.2.

(2) The light signals prescribed by regulation 33(2) or 39(1) may be placed only in conjunction with the road marking shown in diagram 1001.

(3) This direction shall not apply to light signals while works which necessitate the temporary removal of a road marking are being executed on a road near the light signals.

Placing of road marking shown in diagram 1014 in conjunction with the road marking shown in diagram 1013.1 or 1013.3

48.—(1) At least one road marking of the type shown in diagram 1014 shall be placed in conjunction with a road marking of the type shown in diagram 1013.1 or 1013.3 on the length of carriageway which extends backwards from the commencement of any continuous line marked on the carriageway as a part of the road marking shown in diagram 1013.1 or 1013.3, such commencement being viewed in the direction of travel of a vehicle driven so as to have and keep that continuous line on its right hand or off side in accordance with regulation 26(2)(b).

(2) Paragraph (1) shall not apply where the commencement so viewed of a continuous line on the carriageway of a road falls immediately after—

(a)the point where a central reservation ends; or

(b)a roundabout from which traffic enters the carriageway.

(3) For the purposes of paragraph (1), where a continuous line marked on the carriageway of a road as part of the road marking shown in diagram 1013.1 or 1013.3 is interrupted at a junction or by a refuge and recommences immediately after the interruption, the line shall be treated as if it continued through the interruption.

(4) If more than one road marking of the type shown in diagram 1014 is placed on a length of carriageway, then the road markings shall be so spaced apart that one follows in line behind the other.

Placing of road marking shown in diagram 1001.3 (zig-zag lines)

49.—(1) In this direction “relevant crossing facility” means a signal-controlled crossing facility—

(a)at which there is placed the signal shown in diagram 4003.2, 4003.4, 4003.5 or 4003.7; and

(b)which is not situated at a junction at which the priority between motor vehicles is regulated by traffic light signals.

(2) Subject to paragraphs (4) to (6), zig-zag lines shall be placed on the approaches to each side of a relevant crossing facility so as to form controlled areas as defined by regulation 27(1).

(3) Zig-zag lines shall not be placed on a road except in accordance with—

(a)paragraph (2); or

(b)regulations made, or having effect as if made, under section 25 of the 1984 Act (pedestrian crossings regulations).

(4) So long as the condition in paragraph (5) is complied with, paragraph (2) shall not apply where, in accordance with an authorisation given under section 64(1) or (2) of the 1984 Act, a relevant crossing facility has been provided on a road before 1st April 2003 but without the placing of zig-zag lines on the approaches as mentioned in paragraph (2).

(5) The condition is that the signs and markings indicating the facility are maintained in accordance with the authorisation under which they were placed and any special directions under section 65 of the 1984 Act that were given in conjunction with the authorisation.

(6) Paragraphs (4) and (5) shall cease to have effect on 1st January 2007.

Placing of signs and light signals shown in Schedule 11

50.  The light signals prescribed by regulation 37(1) and 45 and the signs and light signals shown in any diagram in Schedule 11 may be displayed only on or near—

(a)a motorway; or

(b)an all-purpose dual carriageway road.

51.—(1) The light signals prescribed by regulation 37(1) shall not be displayed over or in relation to a traffic lane in conjunction with the sign shown in diagram 6001, 6002, 6003, 6006, 6006.1, 6008, 6009, 6009.1, 6009.2, 6011, 6011.1 or 6012.

(2) Paragraph (1) shall not apply to the signs shown in diagrams 6006.2, 6008.1 and 6009.3 when the light signals prescribed by regulation 37(1) are placed at the side of a carriageway so as to convey prohibitions or requirements applying to all traffic proceeding along the carriageway in a particular direction.

52.  The sign shown in diagram 6002, 6021 or 6031.1 may be displayed only over a traffic lane and the sign shown in diagram 6006, 6006.1, 6006.2, 6008, 6008.1, 6009, 6009.1, 6009.2, 6009.3, 6022 or 6032.1 may be displayed only at the side of the carriageway to which the indications given by the sign relate, or projecting over part of that carriageway, so as to convey warnings, prohibitions or requirements applying to all traffic proceeding along the carriageway in a particular direction.

Placing of portable light signals prescribed by regulation 35

53.—(1) A traffic authority may, pursuant to section 65(1) of the 1984 Act, cause or permit the placing of the portable light signals prescribed by regulation 35 if and only if—

(a)permission is given in writing, or in a case of urgency, given orally and confirmed in writing as soon as reasonably practicable thereafter; and

(b)either—

(i)the written permission of the authority includes express approval to the placing of the signals at a particular site; or

(ii)the authority is satisfied that the circumstances of the particular case fall within one of the sets of circumstances specified in paragraph (2).

(2) The sets of circumstances referred to in paragraph (1)(b)(ii) are—

(a)where the signals are to be operated and maintained by, and are under the regular supervision of, a constable in uniform during the progress of a temporary scheme of traffic control;

(b)where the signals are placed on a length of road along which—

(i)there is no junction carrying vehicular traffic to or from it; and

(ii)the width of the carriageway is temporarily restricted so as to carry only one line of traffic;

(c)where the signals are placed at a level crossing when work in relation to that crossing is being carried out;

(d)where the signals are placed on a road which is—

(i)adjacent to the temporary site of road, building or engineering works; and

(ii)is used for the movement of vehicles, materials, plant or equipment within the site of the works.

(3) Nothing in this direction is to be taken to limit or affect the powers of a constable or the chief officer of police under section 67(1) of the 1984 Act (placing of temporary traffic signs on roads in extraordinary circumstances).

Placing of signals and other signs at crossings

54.  The Schedule to these Directions shall have effect with regard to the placing of—

(a)vehicular light signals;

(b)pedestrian light signals; and

(c)other signs,

at signal-controlled crossing facilities where vehicular traffic is stopped only for the purpose of enabling pedestrians, cyclists or equestrians to cross the carriageway and not for the purpose of regulating the priority of vehicular traffic at a junction.

Placing of various light signals

55.—(1) The light signals shown in diagram 4004 may be placed only in combination with the sign shown in diagram 545 together with the plate shown in diagram 546, 547.1 or 547.7.

(2) The light signals shown in diagram 4005 may be placed on or near a road only when the sign shown in diagram 548 in conjunction with the plate shown in diagram 548.1 is placed in advance of those signals.

(3) The light signals shown in diagram 4006 may be placed only in conjunction with the light signals shown in diagram 3014.

(4) The sign shown in diagram 4003 may be placed only in conjunction with the light signals shown in diagram 4002.1.

(5) The sign shown in diagram 4003.3 may be placed only in conjunction with the light signals shown in diagram 4003.2.

(6) The sign shown in diagram 4003.6 may be placed only in conjunction with the light signals shown in diagram 4003.5.

(7) The light signals shown in diagram 4002.1 or 4003.1 may be placed only in conjunction with the light signals prescribed by regulation 33(1) or (2).

(8) The light signals shown in diagram 4003.2 or 4003.4 may be placed only in conjunction with the light signals prescribed by regulation 33(1).

(9) The light signals shown in diagram 4003.5 or 4003.7 may be placed only in conjunction with the light signals prescribed by regulation 33(1).

(10) The light signal shown in diagram 776 may be placed only at or near a level crossing and the legend shall be displayed to road traffic in black letters on a red background which is internally illuminated by means of electricity only when a railway vehicle or tramcar has just passed over the level crossing and another is approaching.

(11) The light signals of the kinds prescribed by regulation 33(1), 34 or 39 may be placed on or near a road to face traffic proceeding in a particular direction if and only if—

(a)at least two identical sets of signals are placed so as to face traffic proceeding in that direction; and

(b)at least one of those sets of signals is a set of primary signals.

Approval of types of sign and signals by the Secretary of State

56.—(1) The signs to which this direction applies may be placed on or near a road only if at the time that they are first placed they meet the requirements specified in paragraph (3).

(2) This direction applies to—

(a)the signals prescribed by regulations 33, 34, 35, 37, 39, 41, 44, 45, 47, 48, 49 and 52;

(b)the matrix signs prescribed by regulation 46;

(c)the warning lights prescribed by regulations 50 and 51;

(d)the audible and tactile signals prescribed by regulations 47 and 49;

(e)the signs shown in diagrams 618.3A, 776 and 2509.1;

(f)the signs shown in diagrams 2505, 2505.1, 2506, 2507, 2508, 2510, 2511, 2512 and 2513, if varied to include a variable element;

(g)any light signals or signs shown in a diagram in Schedule 11;

(h)variable message signs and any other signs not continuously in use over a period of 24 hours and which are capable of being brought into and taken out of use by the operation of any electrical or other apparatus.

(3) The requirements referred to in paragraph (1) are—

(a)in all cases, that any equipment (including the content of all instructions stored in, or executable by it) used in connection with the signal or sign is of a type approved in writing by the Secretary of State or the Scottish Ministers; and

(b)in the case of the signals prescribed by regulation 39 or regulation 52, that any such equipment is of a type so approved as appropriate having regard to the number and disposition and the site of those signals.

(4) Paragraph (3)(b) does not apply to signals displayed to indicate the effect of orders made, or having effect as if made, under section 1 of the Level Crossings Act 1983(21).

(5) If, after a signal or sign has been placed in accordance with an approval under paragraph (3), the signal, sign or any equipment used in connection with the signal or sign is altered, the signal or sign shall not be further used unless that alteration is approved in writing by or on behalf of the Secretary of State.

(6) When any signal or sign has been placed in accordance with an approval under paragraph (3), the signal, the sign or any equipment used in connection with the signal or sign, including any alterations approved in accordance with paragraph (5), shall be regarded as continuing to be approved until notice is given in writing by the Secretary of State—

(a)to the traffic authority; and

(b)either—

(i)to the supplier of the sign, signal or equipment; or

(ii)where an alteration has been approved in accordance with paragraph (3), to the person who carried out the alteration,

of a date after which the signal, sign or equipment is no longer to be so regarded.

(7) Where notice is given under paragraph (6) that a signal, sign or any equipment used in connection with the signal or sign is no longer to be regarded as being approved that signal, sign or equipment shall be removed from the road on or before the date given in the notice.

Studs

57.—(1) A stud incorporating reflectors or retroreflecting material, but no steady or intermittent light source, may be placed on a road if and only if—

(a)it is a stud of a type which meets the requirements of paragraph (5); or

(b)it is of a type approved by the Secretary of State in accordance with direction 58.

(2) A stud incorporating both reflectors or retroreflecting material and a steady or intermittent light source, may be placed on a road if and only if—

(a)so far as it incorporates reflectors or retroreflecting material it is of a type that meets the requirements of paragraph (5) and, so far as it incorporates a steady or intermittent light source, it is of a type approved by the Secretary of State in accordance with direction 58; or

(b)it is of a type approved by the Secretary of State in accordance with direction 58.

(3) A stud incorporating a steady or intermittent light source and no reflectors or retroreflecting material may be placed on a road if and only if it is of a type approved by the Secretary of State in accordance with direction 58.

(4) In paragraph (5) “the European Standards” means European Standards EN 1463–1: 1997 and 1463–2: 2000 for retroreflecting road studs.

(5) A type of stud meets the requirements of this paragraph if and only if, being a type of stud which falls within a description specified in column (2) of an item in the table, it meets the performance requirement or test specification of the European Standards specified in column (3) of the item as it applies to studs within the class specified in that column.

Approval of types of stud by the Secretary of State

58.—(1) Subject to paragraph (2) the Secretary of State may approve in writing a type of stud for the purposes of direction 57(1)(b), (2) or (3).

(2) To the extent that a type of stud incorporates reflectors or retroreflecting material, the Secretary of State may approve it under paragraph (1) only for the purpose of testing it in order to determine whether it meets the requirements of direction 57(5).

(3) When any stud has been placed in accordance with an approval under paragraph (1), the stud shall cease to be regarded as being of an approved type—

(a)in a case where approval has been granted for a specified period only, on whichever is the earlier of—

(i)the date on which that period expires; or

(ii)the date specified in a notice in writing given by the Secretary of State to the supplier and to the traffic authority as the date after which the stud is no longer to be so regarded;

(b)in a case where approval has been granted without any express time limit, on the date specified in a notice in writing given by the Secretary of State to the supplier and to the traffic authority as the date after which the stud is no longer to be so regarded.

(4) All studs ceasing to be of an approved type shall be removed on or before the appropriate date in accordance with paragraph (2).

Special directions

59.  Nothing in these Directions shall be taken to limit the power of the Secretary of State, the Scottish Ministers and the National Assembly of Wales(22) by special direction to dispense with, add to or modify any of the requirements of these Directions in their application to any particular case.