The Road Safety Markings Association (RSMA) has written to the new Secretary of State for Transport, Louise Haigh MP, to urge action on road markings.
Often overlooked, road markings are one of the most cost-effective safety solutions for policy makers and authorities and yet they continue to deteriorate and even disappear altogether as the state of UK roads declines overall. Whilst we understand that potholes continue to make headlines due to their cost impact on the public, road markings also require attention to ensure safety on UK roads. Supporting the progress of in-vehicle safety improvements, road markings are vital for autonomous and driver-assist safety functions to work, so improved maintenance is paramount.
The RSMA has requested that road markings are considered within overall policy decisions going forward, focussing on the following key areas:
Increased funding for road markings maintenance and upgradesSecure ring-fenced funding for the continuous upkeep, growth and improvement of road safety markings across the country, delivered by local government and regional Mayors.
Implementation of advanced road marking technologiesInvest in research and deployment of advanced road marking technologies and ensure their adoption in new and existing road projects.
Focus on vulnerable road usersPrioritise the safety of vulnerable road users by incorporating dedicated markings and infrastructure in urban planning and road design projects. Improved investment and growth of active travel not only protects vulnerable users but helps work towards net zero and healthier communities.
Standardisation and modernisation of road marking guidelinesReview and update national road marking standards and guidelines to reflect current best practices and ensure uniform implementation across all regions.
Promotion of road safety education and awareness campaignsSupport nationwide road safety education campaigns that highlight the role of road markings and encourage responsible road use among all age groups and demographics.
Rob Shearing, CEO at the RSMA, said: “We are hopeful that the new Government will engage with us to ensure that road markings are given consideration when developing or making change to policies. Road infrastructure in the UK is chronically underfunded and the approach to road maintenance is fragmented across authorities so we hope that voices across the sector are heard to improve conditions, quality and overall safety in the future.”
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