New signs were installed in a contraflow section of the A417 Missing Link project as part of the broader Electronic Boards for Roadworks review, which has significantly increased understanding of the changes due to roadworks.

Industry research has shown that messages which can be read within four seconds are better for drivers. The new signs display concise, friendly messages in white text over a black background. Previously signs presented yellow text on a black background.

The new signs allow National Highways to communicate transparently and succinctly to motorists using short simple messaging such as ‘Working even out of view’, providing an awareness of operations outside of the public eye.

National Highways can display this messaging thanks to updated standards for electronic boards for roadworks, including text colour and border additions, allowing it to use them more as electronic billboards than traditional variable message signs.

Nick Nandhra, project manager for National Highways said: “These new signs mark a significant advancement in our goal to enhance road user experiences. Clear communication during roadworks is crucial, and we’re excited to set a new standard in road messaging and launch these signs for the first time.”

Caroline Weller, VMS manager at SRL Traffic Systems added: “As the first scheme implementing this standard, we’re thrilled to showcase a modern, customer-focused approach to traffic management.”

Kier project director Gavin Jones said: “The A417 Missing Link team are very pleased to have worked with National Highways and SRL on this initiative, and to be the first project to deploy the new signs. We are confident that the signs will assist motorists travelling through the A417 and improve their journeys.”