03/09/2003

Sign warns motorists on dangerous A2 bend to slow down

Motorists in North Down are being urged to slow down after a new sign actrivated by approaching vehicles began operation on the A2 Belfast to Bangor Road at Coach Hill Bend.

The hi-tech electronic sign remains blank until activated by a vehicle travelling at an inappropriate speed, when it will automatically display a ‘bend warning sign’ with a ‘Slow Down’ warning message.

This location has seen numerous accidents, including deaths, over the years through motorists speeding.

Joe Drew, Divisional Roads Manager said: “This innovative use of technology is a vital part of Roads Service contribution to the overall Northern Ireland Roads Safety Strategy for reducing the terrible carnage on our roads.

“Central to this must be the lowering of speeds at which we drive. For every one mph we reduce speeds we can expect a corresponding five per cent reduction in collisions. I am confident that the use of this type of sign will be effective in reducing speeds on this road.”

The new signs have been installed as part of the implementation of the Northern Ireland Roads Safety Strategy 2002 – 2012. The use of similar signs in the rest of the UK has proved successful at sites where conventional signing has not been effective at reducing road accidents.

(MB)

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