Road Closed Signs Being Ignored

Thursday, 21 December 2023 07:22

A driver nearly ended up in a trench where Guernsey Electricity staff were working, after trying to get through roadworks.

A joint appeal is being made by Guernsey Police, States Traffic and Highways and Guernsey Electricity for drivers and cyclists to take notice of roadworks signs.

John Tostevin from Guernsey Electricity says a car that had ignored a road closed sign in St Andrews nearly drove into a trench where staff were working:

"This was dangerous to both the workers and the driver as there were live electricity cables and other services in the trench.

Guernsey Electricity understand that road works can be inconvenient, but they are essential for upgrading the network or repairing faults.

We would ask for Islanders’ continued assistance and adherence to any signage or instructions to ensure roadworks are conducted as safely as possible.”

Mark Brockway, a senior traffic officer, says more and more drivers are trying to get through:

“When coming across a road closed sign, it seems that some people driving and riding have got into the habit of ignoring it and seeing if they can get through anyway. We’re hearing from utilities and contractors that this is an increasing problem."

Recently, signs have been adapted to show that in many cases cyclists can pass through the roadworks, but they are often asked to get off, then remount when past the area where work's being done.

People are being reminded that a road closed sign means just that, unless they need access to their home.