Road Markings

2003

CHAPTER

Traffic
Signs
Manual

Traffic
Signs
Manual

Chapter 5

Road Markings

Department for Transport

Department for Regional Development (Northern Ireland)
Scottish Executive
Welsh Assembly Government

London: TSO

Traffic Signs Manual 2003

Contents of Chapters 1-8

CHAPTER 1

Introduction, Miscellaneous Matters and General Index *

CHAPTER 2

Directional Informatory Signs on Motorways and All-Purpose Roads *

CHAPTER 3

Regulatory Signs

CHAPTER 4

Warning Signs

CHAPTER 5

Road Markings

CHAPTER 6

Illumination of Traffic Signs *

CHAPTER 7

The Design of Traffic Signs

CHAPTER 8

Traffic Safety Measures and Signs for Road Works and Temporary Situations

* To be published

Published for the Department for Transport under licence from the
Controller of Her Majestys Stationery Office

Crown Copyright 2003

Second impression, with corrections, 2004
Copyright in the typographical arrangement rests with the Crown.
This publication (excluding logos) may be reproduced free of charge in any format or medium for
research, private study or for internal circulation within an organisation. This is subject to it being
reproduced accurately and not used in a misleading context. The material must be acknowledged as
Crown copyright and the title of the publication specified.
For any other use of this material please write to The HMSO Licensing Division, HMSO,
St Clements House, 2-16 Colegate, Norwich NR3 1BQ.
Fax: 01603 723000, or e-mail: [email protected].
ISBN 0 11 552479 7

Traffic Signs Manual

Chapter 5

CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION

2. LEGAL

3. STOP AND GIVE WAY MARKINGS

4. LONGITUDINAL LINES

13

5. DOUBLE WHITE LINES

30

6. ROAD STUDS

42

7. MAJOR / MINOR JUNCTIONS

44

8. ROUNDABOUTS

52

9. SIGNAL CONTROLLED JUNCTIONS

62

10. GRADE SEPARATED JUNCTIONS

66

11. YELLOW BAR MARKINGS

73

12. YELLOW BOX JUNCTION MARKINGS

76

13. ARROWS AND LANE DESTINATIONS

80

14. TRAFFIC ISLANDS

86

15. PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS

88

CONTENTS

16. CYCLE MARKINGS

95

17. BUS MARKINGS

102

18. TRAM MARKINGS

108

19. RAILWAY LEVEL CROSSINGS

113

20. WAITING RESTRICTIONS

116

21. TRAFFIC CALMING

125

22. WORDED AND DIAGRAMMATIC MARKINGS

131

23. MATERIALS AND MAINTENANCE

142

APPENDIX A: Northern Ireland variations

146

APPENDIX B: Index of diagrams

148

INDEX

151

1 INTRODUCTION
GENERAL

numbering occasionally differs in the Northern

Ireland Regulations (see Appendix A). References to
Directions are not applicable in Northern Ireland;
where these are referred to, advice should be sought
from the Department for Regional Development's
Roads Service Headquarters.

1.1 The Traffic Signs Manual is intended to give

advice to traffic authorities and their agents on the
correct use of signs and road markings. Mandatory
requirements are set out in the current version of the
Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions;
nothing in the manual can override these. The advice
is given to assist authorities in the discharge of their
duties under section 122 of the Road Traffic
Regulation Act 1984, but it is for traffic authorities to
determine what signing they consider necessary to
meet those duties.

USE OF ROAD MARKINGS

1.6 Road markings serve a very important function in
conveying to road users information and
requirements which might not be possible using
upright signs. They have the advantage that they can
often be seen when a verge-mounted sign is
obscured, and, unlike such signs, they can provide a
continuing message.

1.2 The Traffic Signs Manual is applicable in

England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
References to the Secretary of State should
therefore be interpreted as referring to the Secretary
of State for Transport, the Department for Regional
Development (Northern Ireland), the Scottish
Executive or the Welsh Assembly Government as
appropriate.

1.7 Road markings have their limitations. They may

be completely obliterated by snow. Their conspicuity
is impaired when wet or dirty, and their effective life
is reduced if they are subjected to heavy trafficking.

1.3 This chapter of the manual describes the design

and use of road markings (including road studs), i.e.
markings on the surface of the road for the control,
warning, guidance or information of road users.
Some markings may be used to supplement upright
signs; others are intended to be used alone.

1.8 Nevertheless, road markings make a vital

contribution to safety, e.g. by clearly defining the
path to be followed through hazards, by separating
conflicting movements and by delineating the road
edge on unlit roads at night. They can also help to
improve junction capacity, and make best use of
available road space. In particular, widespread use of
lane markings is desirable; by encouraging lane
discipline they improve the safety and efficiency of
traffic flow. Longitudinal lines should be designed to
ensure a flowing alignment, avoiding sudden
changes of direction or sharp tapers of inadequate
length. Road marking layout should always be
considered in detail at the design stage of any
scheme.

1.4 Any reference to a Chapter is a reference to a

Chapter of the Traffic Signs Manual, e.g. Chapter 3
for regulatory signs or Chapter 4 for warning signs
and any reference to a section, unless otherwise
stated, is a reference to a section in this chapter of
the manual. Where more detailed background
information might be helpful, reference is made to
Departmental Standards and Advice Notes. These can
be found in the Design Manual for Roads and
Bridges, published by the Stationery Office.

1.9 Because of the oblique angle at which they are

viewed, road markings appear heavily foreshortened.
This effect is countered in the case of worded
markings, e.g. SLOW, by elongating the legend (see
paras 22.47 to 22.49). Two sizes are prescribed; the
larger marking is legible at a greater distance and is
used where traffic speeds are higher. Similarly,
longitudinal lines need to be wider and longer where
speeds are high, in order to maintain adequate
conspicuity.

1.5 Any reference to the Regulations or the

Directions is a reference to the Traffic Signs
Regulations and General Directions 2002 and
applicable to England, Scotland and Wales.
Reference to a diagram number is a reference to a
diagram in those Regulations. In Northern Ireland the
relevant legislation is the Traffic Signs Regulations
(Northern Ireland) 1997. Diagram and regulation

INTRODUCTION

VISIBILITY

reduction in visibility distance of more than 20%

compared with drivers still in their twenties.

1.10 For road markings to be effective, they must be

clearly visible both by day and by night. Markings
have two principal functions. The first is symbolic,
e.g. hatched markings; the driver needs to have
learned that these indicate an area which is not
available to traffic. The second is guidance; centre
lines, edge lines and lane lines help drivers to
maintain their lateral position on the road. Some
markings, e.g. hazard lines and double white line
systems have both symbolic and guidance functions.

1.14 The marking regime prescribed in the UK

generally gives adequate levels of guidance in good
conditions, i.e. where the road is dry, the driver is
young, the vehicle has clean, powerful headlamps
and there is no glare from oncoming vehicles. On
roads with high traffic speeds, wider lines should
normally be adopted where alternatives are
prescribed. However, it is important that guidance
markings are well maintained. Severe wear reduces
both effective width and retroreflective performance,
and hence the visibility distance. Further guidance on
the maintenance of road markings can be found in
paras 23.21 to 23.26.

1.11 The guidance function is less critical (although

still important) in daylight or on lit roads because
there are many visual cues available to enable the
driver to judge course and position. On unlit roads at
night, conditions are very different; the visual stimuli
in the distance and to the sides of the road are largely
absent. Road markings then become the most
important aid in enabling the driver to follow the
road.

REFLECTORISATION
1.15 Tiny glass beads are incorporated in road
markings so that they reflect the light from vehicle
headlamps back towards the driver. This makes the
marking much brighter at night than nonreflectorised materials. The new European Standard
for road markings (BS EN 1436) specifies several
different classes for night-time brightness. Brighter
markings are visible at greater distances, and may
provide an acceptable level of performance for a
longer time before renewal becomes necessary (see
paras 23.9, 23.10 and 23.16 for further details).

1.12 Recent collaborative European research has

shown that drivers need to be able to detect
guidance markings at a distance equivalent to a
minimum of two seconds of travel time. If the
visibility is less than this, drivers tend to adjust too
late when the road changes direction. They run too
close to the centre line on left hand bends, or too
close to the road edge on right hand bends. The
higher the prevailing traffic speed, the greater the
visibility distance required to maintain this twosecond preview time. If it is not provided, drivers
tend to miss the curve, or proceed in a series of
staggers.

1.16 Markings which maintain night-time

performance even when wet may also be specified.
This is usually achieved by the use of larger glass
beads, but the wet performance of certain road
markings may also be enhanced by the use of raised
profiles (see paras 4.39 to 4.48, and 23.16).

1.13 A variety of factors influence the visibility

distance of a road marking. It is increased when a line
is wider, has a higher mark-to-gap ratio or has a
higher coefficient of retroreflected luminance (in the
day time, higher contrast with the road surface).
Visibility distance is adversely affected by glare from
oncoming vehicles, dirty headlamps or windscreen
and especially by rain; the glass beads which produce
the night time luminance are drowned by excess
water, greatly reducing the brightness of the line.
Older drivers also see a marking less well than the
young; someone seventy years old may suffer a

DIMENSIONS
1.17 Dimensions on the figures are in millimetres
unless stated otherwise. Many markings are fully
dimensioned in the Regulations. Detailed drawings
of the more complex ones are published by the
Stationery Office in the series Working Drawings for
Traffic Sign Design and Manufacture and also on
the Department's website.

2 LEGAL
PRESCRIBED MARKINGS AND ROAD STUDS

2.5 Care should be taken to ensure that markings

are used only in the manner prescribed in the
Regulations, and that no non-prescribed marking is
used unless it has been authorised in writing. Failure
to do so may leave an authority open to litigation, or
make a traffic regulation order unenforceable.

2.1 All road markings placed on a highway or road

to which the public have access must be either
prescribed by Regulations or authorised by the
Secretary of State for Transport (for installations in
England) or the Department for Regional
Development (Northern Ireland), the Scottish
Executive or the Welsh Assembly Government as
appropriate.

2.6 Regulation 31(3) requires the use of white road

studs in conjunction with double white lines
(diagrams 1013.1, 1013.3 and 1013.4). Guidance on
the more general use of road studs is given in
section 6.

2.2 All road studs used on the public highway must

satisfy the minimum performance classes specified in
direction 57 or, if of a type not covered by the
European Standard BS EN 1463 (see para 6.6),
e.g. light-emitting studs, be approved in writing by
the Secretary of State or by the equivalent national
authority (see para 1.2).

2.7 Clarification of current policy on the use of edge

of carriageway markings and associated road studs
in Northern Ireland should be sought from the
Department for Regional Development's Roads
Service Headquarters.

PLACING OF ROAD MARKINGS AND STUDS

ILLUMINATION, COLOURS AND DIMENSIONS

2.3 Road markings and road studs may be placed

on a highway only by or with the consent of the
highway authority (section 132 of the Highways Act
1980). In Scotland, this will be the appropriate roads
authority.

2.8 Most road markings that have a guidance

function are required to be illuminated by
retroreflecting material (regulation 31(1)). A full list
appears in table 23-1.
2.9 Road markings are prescribed in the colours
white and yellow. Further details can be found in
paras 23.17 and 23.18.

2.4 Certain road markings may be used only if

supported by a traffic regulation order or other
statutory provision (direction 7), whilst others,
e.g. Give Way markings (diagram 1003), have legal
implications in that not complying with them could
constitute a traffic offence under Section 36 of the
Road Traffic Act 1988 (regulation 10). Some road
markings may be placed only in conjunction with
certain other markings or with specified signs
(direction 18).

2.10 The colours and location of stud reflectors with

respect to the running lanes are prescribed in
regulation 31(7) and detailed in paras 6.9 and 6.10.
2.11 In addition to indicating overall dimensions, the
Regulations prescribe maximum heights for road
markings and road studs (regulation 32).

3 STOP AND GIVE WAY MARKINGS

200 mm width is generally for use in urban areas. The
300 mm width should be used in rural areas, or
where the 85th percentile speed exceeds 35 mph.
The greater width may also be used in urban areas at
difficult locations, or where heavy traffic results in
rapid erosion of the marking.

GENERAL
3.1 The legal requirements imposed on drivers by the
STOP sign and its associated marking are defined in
regulation 16. The requirements imposed by the Give
Way marking are defined in regulation 25.

3.8 The Stop line will normally be at right angles to

the centre line of the road to which it applies. It
should be at least 1.5 m in advance of the near side
primary signal, although 2.5 m is preferable (see
para 9.4). Site conditions may necessitate a greater
distance (see below). Recommended layouts are
shown in figures 9-1 and 9-2.

3.2 The Stop line shown in figure 3-1 and the

Give Way line shown in figure 3-2 are normally
positioned so that the edge of the marking nearest
to the major road continues the line of the edge of
that road, even when the minor road enters at an
angle other than 90. See para 3.21 for guidance on
positioning the Give Way line where a 1 m hard strip
is provided.

3.9 It may be necessary to set back the Stop line to

allow for positioning of the primary traffic signal and
any pedestrian crossing facility. At some junctions it is
necessary to set it back a further distance to permit
turning movements into that road (see para 9.5). This
is likely to reduce the capacity of the junction; an
alternative might be to prohibit a turning movement.

3.3 On two-way minor roads, the Stop or Give Way

line normally extends to the centre of the
carriageway, the remaining width being marked with
diagram 1009 indicating the edge of the major road.
Where this would result in Stop or Give Way lines less
than 2.75 m long, these should be extended across
the full width of the minor road carriageway, and the
centre line omitted. The diagram 1009 edge marking
is not used at traffic signals.

3.10 For details of the stop line used at level

crossings and at tramways at traffic signal junctions
respectively, see paras 19.3 and 18.12. The advanced
stop line for cycles (diagram 1001.2) is dealt with in
paras 16.20 to 16.22.

3.4 Where a one-way street enters a major road, the

Give Way or Stop marking is always carried across the
whole width of the minor road.
3.5 The transverse markings should be accompanied
by longitudinal warning lines, indicating the centre
line or lane division, extending from the junction in
accordance with the standards set out in para 4.16
for approach warning lines.

JUNCTION STOP LINE

3.11 The marking (diagram 1002.1) consists of a
single continuous line 400 mm wide. It is used only at
junctions controlled by STOP signs (diagram 601.1)
and must not be used with a GIVE WAY sign (see
also paras 3.2 to 3.6). The STOP sign, Stop line and
the worded STOP marking (diagram 1022) must
always be used in conjunction with each other (see
figure 3-1). Two sizes for the word STOP are
prescribed, as shown in table 3-1.

3.6 The Directions prohibit the use of STOP signs

and markings or Give Way lines on all legs of a
junction, as this would cause uncertainty as to which
vehicles had priority (directions 30 and 34(1)(a)).

3.12 The word STOP is normally located so that the

top edge of the legend is not more than 2.75 m nor
less than 2.1 m from the nearest part of the Stop line.
Exceptionally this may be increased to a maximum of
15 m, e.g. where the vertical curvature or a sharp
bend prevents it being seen from a distance.

TRAFFIC SIGNAL STOP LINE

3.7 The marking (diagram 1001) consists of a single
continuous line 200 mm or 300 mm in width and
indicates the position beyond which a driver must not
proceed when required to stop by light signals. The

STOP AND GIVE WAY MARKINGS

600

Diagram 1002.1

400

2100 - 2750
(15000 max)

2050

300

4000
(6000)

(200)
(150)
100

Diagram 1009

1600
(2800)
2000
(3000)

Diagram
1022

Diagram 1004
(1004.1)

STOP sign
(Diagram 601.1)

Markings for use with STOP sign

Figure 3-1

3.13 Where advance warning of the STOP sign is

required, this is provided by the sign to diagram 501
and its associated distance plate (diagram 502) which
may be accompanied by the worded marking SLOW
(diagram 1024) on the carriageway. Table 2-1 in
Chapter 4 indicates where advance signing is
appropriate.

GIVE WAY MARKINGS

3.14 The Give Way marking to diagram 1003 is used
at major / minor road junctions. It may be
accompanied by the approach triangle
(diagram 1023) and the upright sign to diagram 602,
but in the following combinations only:
(i)

Give Way marking alone

(ii) Give Way marking with approach triangle

Table 3-1
85 percentile
speed
(mph)

Size of STOP
sign
(mm)

Size of STOP
road marking
(mm)

Up to 30
31 to 40
41 to 50
Over 50

750
750 (900)
900 (1200)
1200

1600
1600 (2800)
2800
2800

(iii) Give Way marking with approach triangle

and GIVE WAY sign.
Advance warning of the GIVE WAY using diagrams
501 and 503 (in accordance with the guidance in
table 2-1 in Chapter 4) may be provided with (iii),
i.e. only when the upright GIVE WAY sign is installed
at the junction. In all cases, the worded SLOW road
marking may be used in advance of the junction.

NOTE: Alternative sizes are shown in brackets. The

alternatives should be used where they are required
by site conditions or where the accident record calls
for greater emphasis.

3.15 With the exceptions mentioned in para 3.22,

the Give Way marking is intended for use at all
junctions other than those which are controlled by

STOP AND GIVE WAY MARKINGS

Diagram 1003
600

200

300

300

2100 - 2750
(15000 max)

600

1250

300

4000
(6000)

100
(150)
(200)

Diagram 1009

600
150
3750

2000
(3000)

Diagram 1004
(1004.1)

Diagram 1023

Markings for use with GIVE WAY sign

Figure 3-2
STOP signs or by traffic signals (except for movements
not controlled by those signals). It is not generally
used at private accesses, or on minor estate roads
where traffic speeds and flows are low and visibility is
good.

3.18 Diagram 1023 is normally located with its

leading edge between 2100 mm and 2750 mm from
the transverse marking (see figure 3-2). This distance
may be increased to a maximum of 15 m if the
vertical sign has to be sited further from the junction
in order to ensure adequate visibility (see Chapter 3).
The triangle should be positioned approximately in
the centre of the traffic lane. Where the approach to
the junction comprises more than one lane, the
marking should be provided in each lane.

3.16 The prescribed marking (diagram 1003) for

major / minor junctions consists of two broken lines
laid side by side, each comprising 600 mm marks and
300 mm gaps. The lines are 200 mm wide and are
spaced 300 mm apart (see figure 3-2). Subject to the
following, the marking is laid at the mouth of the
minor road at a junction (see also paras 3.2 to 3.6).

3.19 Alternative dimensions for diagrams 1003

and 1023 are prescribed for use with cycle tracks (see
para 16.3).

3.17 The triangular marking (diagram 1023) may be

used only when a transverse Give Way line to
diagram 1003 is provided (see para 3.14). When the
junction is with a heavily trafficked route, or the
presence of the major road is not obvious, e.g. at a
crossroads, the marking should be accompanied by
the upright GIVE WAY sign to diagram 602. The
upright sign should also be used in rural areas at all
junctions of public roads with primary routes, and in
urban areas at junctions with primary routes unless
the minor road is a residential or local street.

3.20 The route carrying the highest traffic flow

should normally be given priority. Exceptionally,
conditions at certain junctions might be such that it
would be preferable to treat a road of greater traffic
importance as the minor road when allocating
priority. For example, at a square crossroads junction,
stopping vehicles on a steep downhill grade might
result in overrun type accidents. It might also be
beneficial to give a less heavily trafficked road priority
as a way of overcoming poor visibility to the right.

10

STOP AND GIVE WAY MARKINGS

3.21 On roads where a 1 m hard strip is provided,

demarcated with the edge of carriageway marking to
diagram 1012.1 or 1012.3, the Give Way marking
should be aligned with the back of the hard strip and
not with the edge line (see figure 3-3).

3.22 Diagram 1003 should not be used on high

speed dual carriageway roads where traffic either
joins from a slip road (at a grade separated junction)
or there is a merging taper. At such sites the marking
to diagram 1010 should be used (see figure 3-4).

Diagram 1003

Diagram 1009

Diagram 1004
(1004.1)

Diagram 1023
Diagram 1012.1 or 1012.3

Layout used where a 1 metre hard strip

is provided on the main carriageway
Figure 3-3

Diagram 1005.1

Diagram 1010

Diagram
1041 / 1042
Diagram 1012.1
or 1012.3

Markings for acceleration lane on high speed dual carriageway

Figure 3-4

11

Diagram
1040

STOP AND GIVE WAY MARKINGS

3.23 Where a side road joins either a high speed

single carriageway road or a dual carriageway road
with a gap in the central reservation, the marking to
diagram 1003 should be used.

PRIORITY TRAFFIC SITES

3.24 Where the width of the road is such that traffic
from one direction is given priority over that from the
other using diagrams 615 and 811, the Give Way
marking to diagram 1003 may be used with diagram
615 to indicate the place at which vehicles should
wait. The marking to diagram 1023 may also be
provided, but not the vertical sign to diagram 602,
which is prescribed for use only at junctions or level
crossings (regulation 16). A longitudinal warning line
to diagram 1004 or 1004.1 should be used on the
approach to this narrow section as far as the Give
Way line, discontinued through the hazard and
recommenced where an adequate two-way width is
regained. Diagram 615 must be accompanied by the
plate to diagram 615.1 Give way to oncoming
vehicles, and diagram 811 must be accompanied by
the plate to diagram 811.1 Priority over oncoming
vehicles. Under no circumstances should traffic from
both directions be required by the signs or markings
to give way.

CYCLE PRIORITY
3.25 Regulation 25(6) enables the marking to
diagram 1003 to be used to give priority to a cycle
track crossing a road. The length of road crossed
by the cycle track must consist of a road hump, which
should be of the flat-topped type. The hump must
extend across the full width of the carriageway, in
accordance with direction 34(2). The marking to
diagram 1023 should also be provided, together
with a longitudinal warning line to diagram 1004
on each approach. The hump must be marked with
diagram 1062 (see para 21.9). The Give Way marking
should be placed on the carriageway of the road, not
on any part of the hump.

12

4 LONGITUDINAL LINES
CENTRE LINES

100 (150)
4.1 The 1994 Regulations introduced new markings
intended for use as centre lines separating opposing
flows of traffic on single carriageway roads. These are
illustrated in figure 4-1 and the dimensions and
recommended applications are shown in table 4-1.
Diagram 1008 is used where the speed limit is
40 mph or less, and 1008.1 where the speed limit is
more than 40 mph.

100 (150)

2000

3000

4000

6000
4.2 All new installations and reinstatements must
use diagrams 1008 and 1008.1 for centre line
markings (where warning lines and double line
systems are not appropriate) in place of old markings
to diagram 1005.
4.3 The marking should be used only on single
carriageway roads. Where the road comprises one
lane in each direction, the 100 mm wide marking will
normally be sufficient. On four-lane roads, three-lane
marked as two in one direction and one in the other,
or two-lane 10m wide, the 150 mm marking should
be used. Any lane lines should be 100 mm wide (see
paras 4.7 to 4.11). The centre line should never be
narrower than the lane line (see para 4.10). It may be

Diagram 1008

Diagram 1008.1
Figure 4-1

Table 4-1 Centre line on single carriageway roads

Diag
No.

1008

1008

Speed
limit
(mph)

40
or less

40
or less

Mark
(m)

Gap
(m)

Width
(mm)

Spacing
of studs
(if used)
(m)

Description

100

12

Two-lane roads, not less than 5.5 m in width

Two-lane roads 10 m or more in width (or

three lanes marked as two in one direction
and one in the other)

150

Four lanes or more (see para 4.3)

1008.1

1008.1

Over 40

Over 40

100

150

18

Two-lane roads, not less than 5.5 m in width

Two-lane roads 10 m or more in width (or

three lanes marked as two in one direction
and one in the other)
Four lanes or more (see para 4.3)

13

LONGITUDINAL LINES

4.8 The marking is intended for dividing the

carriageway into lanes where traffic on either side of
the line travels in the same direction, and not for
separating opposing flows of traffic. Details are set
out in table 4-2.

replaced by the warning line (see paras 4.12 to 4.26)

where appropriate. When there are two or more
lanes in each direction, consideration might be given
to double white lines (see section 5).
4.4 Where forward visibility is restricted (see
para 4.16) or on the approach to some other hazard
(e.g. a roundabout or other junction), the centre line
marking should be replaced with warning lines to
diagrams 1004 or 1004.1 (see figure 4-3). These are
the inverse of the mark / gap dimensions for the
centre line and therefore maintain the same module
(see table 4-3 for the minimum number of marks).

4.9 Lane lines on the approach to Give Way and

Stop markings, including roundabouts and traffic
signals, should change to warning lines in
accordance with table 4-3 and para 4.24.

100 (150)

100 (150)

4.5 On two or four lane roads the marking should

normally be laid in the geometric centre. It can
however be laid off-centre to allow parking along
one side. Where it is necessary to change the position
of lines in relation to the centre of the road, the
deflection should be smooth and made at the
inclinations specified in table 14-1.

2000

5000

4.6 On rural roads below 5.5 m in width, overrunning of the carriageway edge can occur if centre
line markings are provided, causing maintenance
problems. Drivers might also expect a road marked
with a centre line to be wide enough for opposing
lanes of traffic to pass. In these circumstances the
centre line should be omitted, but it would be helpful
if edge of carriageway markings are then used.

7000
1000

LANE LINES
4.7 Lane lines (see figure 4-2) ensure that available
carriageway space is used to its maximum capacity. In
helping vehicles to maintain a consistent lateral
position, they also offer safety benefits and should be
used wherever practicable.

Diagram 1005

Diagram 1005.1
Figure 4-2

Table 4-2 Lane lines

Diagram
No.

Speed limit
(mph)

Mark
(m)

Gap
(m)

Width
(mm)

Spacing of studs
(if used)
(m)

1005

40 or less

100 (150)

12

1005.1

Over 40

100 (150)

18

14

LONGITUDINAL LINES

4.10 On single carriageway roads with more than

two lanes, the centre line should normally be of a
greater width than the lane lines. This is particularly
important when the warning module is used for
both, making it more difficult to determine which
line divides the opposing traffic streams.

100 (150)

100 (150)

4000
6000

4.11 On 70 mph dual carriageway all-purpose roads

and on motorways, the wider (150 mm) marking
should be used as this increases its visibility distance.
It is also likely to be of benefit on concrete roads,
even with a lower speed limit, helping to compensate
for the reduced contrast.

2000

3000

WARNING LINES
4.12 Warning lines are detailed in figure 4-3 and
table 4-3. They are used:
(i)

as centre lines at bends and crests, and on

multi-lane roads (see paras 4.16 to 4.18),

(ii) as centre lines where it is necessary to

highlight the presence of a road junction,
central refuge or other hazard (see paras
4.19 to 4.23),

Diagram 1004

Diagram 1004.1
Figure 4-3

depending on the speed limit. Table 4-3 sets out

appropriate arrangements for various road layouts
and speed limits.

(iii) approaching or through junctions (see para

4.24 and sections 7, 8, 9 and 10),

4.15 Overuse of the marking should be avoided. Its

use where it is not justified will devalue its effect.
Particular care should be taken in urban areas where
there might be a temptation to use it extensively.

(iv) to mark the boundary of advisory cycle

lanes (see paras 16.9 and 16.10), and
(v) over road humps (see para 21.10).

4.16 Warning lines are used in place of centre lines

where forward visibility is less than the warning line
visibility distance W indicated in table 4-4. This is
based on the visibility necessary for safe overtaking
on a two-way carriageway (see para 5.22 for the
definition of visibility distance). For intermediate
speeds, the appropriate visibility distance should be
taken as the higher figure between the steps shown,
e.g. for an 85th percentile speed of 45 mph, warning
lines are justified when visibility is between 120 and
195 m. Where the visibility distance is less than the
desirable minimum V, a double white line system
should be considered (see section 5).

4.13 Warning lines are always single; they must

never be used as part of a double line installation,
and must not be formed of raised rib markings (see
paras 4.39 to 4.48).
4.14 Two patterns of warning line are prescribed,
each having alternative widths of 100 or 150 mm.
The wider line is visible at a greater distance, and
should be used where this might be beneficial, e.g. at
particularly hazardous sites (see also para 4.10). The
two standard modules are 6 metres and 9 metres in
length (the combination of one mark and one gap)

15

LONGITUDINAL LINES

4.17 Where warning lines are used to separate

opposing flows of traffic on single carriageway roads,
they should normally be laid in the geometric centre
of the carriageway (see also para 4.5).

4.19 Warning lines may be used to highlight the

presence of a road junction (see section 7 for further
guidance) and to mark the approach to central
refuges or other hazards, (see para 4.23), except
where these are within a double line section.

4.18 On four-lane roads the 150 mm wide warning

line may be used to separate opposing traffic,
although consideration might be given to the use of
double white lines (see section 5). On three-lane
roads marked with two lanes in one direction and
one in the other, the 150 mm wide line should be
used, together with 100 mm wide lane lines. The lane
line should never be wider than the warning line.

4.20 On straight sections of road, warning lines on

the priority route would normally be appropriate
when the average traffic volume from the side road
exceeds about 100 vehicles per hour. However,
warning lines will be justified at lower traffic volumes
where visibility of the junction is impaired.

Table 4-3 Warning lines

Diag
No.

1004

1004.1

1004

1004.1

1004

1004.1

1004

1004.1

Speed
limit
(mph)

Mark
(m)

Gap
(m)

Width
(mm)

Spacing
of studs
(if used)
(m)

Minimum number
of marks on each
approach
Speed limit (mph)

30

40

Over
40

40
or less

100

Over
40

100

40
or less

150

Over
40

150

40
or less

150

10

Over
40

150

10

40
or less

100

50

100

60

100

70

150

NOTE: These markings may also be used to delineate an advisory cycle lane (see para 16.9).

16

Purpose

Central warning
line on two-lane
roads less
than 10 m wide
Central warning
line on two-lane
roads 10 m or
more wide
Central warning
line on four or
six-lane single
carriageway roads
Lane line on all
roads on approach
to roundabouts or
signal controlled
junctions, and the
minor road
approaching a
priority junction

LONGITUDINAL LINES

than 150 mm. Kerb faces will not normally exceed

75 mm, because of the risk of loss of control if struck
by a vehicle. Where unusually high kerbs are used,
the 300 mm clearance should always be provided.
When the length of taper required to comply with
table 14-1 needs more marks than the minimum
specified in table 4-3, the number of marks should be
increased sufficiently to ensure that the entire taper
length uses the warning module. Guidance on the
use of hatched markings for additional emphasis is
given in paras 4.49 to 4.51 and further advice on the
treatment of refuges in section 14.

Table 4-4 Visibility distances

85 percentile
speed
(mph)

Desirable
minimum
visibility
distance
V (m)

Warning
line visibility
distance
W (m)

Up to 30
31 to 40
41 to 50
51 to 60
Over 60

75
95
120
150
175

115
160
195
240
275

4.24 On dual carriageway roads, or single

carriageway roads with two or more lanes in one
direction, warning lines should be used in place of
lane lines on the immediate approach to signal
controlled junctions or roundabouts. Where
additional lanes are introduced on the immediate
approach to a roundabout it might not be possible to
provide the minimum number of marks. In such cases
as many marks as possible should be used without
reducing any lane width below 2 m at the start of the
taper (see para 8.3). The detailed arrangements for
marking roundabouts and signal controlled junctions
are described in sections 8 and 9 respectively.

4.21 The minor road should be marked with at least

the minimum number of marks shown in table 4-3.
On narrow two-way minor roads where the Give Way
or Stop marking is extended over the whole width
(see para 3.3), a warning line is not provided.
4.22 If the minor road is a one-way street, a warning
line on the major road will normally be needed only
if the direction of flow is towards the major road. The
principal purpose of the marking is to warn drivers of
the risk of unseen vehicles emerging.
4.23 A warning line approaching a refuge, central
reservation etc. should be inclined for its full length
(see table 4-3 for the minimum number of marks),
terminating in a position offset 300 mm from the
edge of the refuge (see figure 4-4). This may be
reduced when the speed limit is 40 mph or less and
there is limited width between the island and the
near side kerb, but should preferably not be less

4.25 The number of marks recommended in

table 4-3 is the minimum on each approach,
although this is not always possible on minor roads.
The number of marks should be extended wherever
justified by road or traffic conditions; the marking can
with benefit be extended to start at the location of
the accompanying warning sign. Figure 4-5 indicates

Diagram 1004
(may be replaced over the
taper length by diagram 1040
if greater emphasis is required)
150 - 300 (see para 4.23)

For angle of taper see table 14-1

Figure 4-4

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LONGITUDINAL LINES

a possible combination of signs and markings at a

road junction. This arrangement is not intended to be
used at all junctions, but may be appropriate at
difficult sites where, for example, overtaking may
cause a problem on the approach to a junction.
4.26 Where there are two features that would justify
warning lines (e.g. two junctions, or a junction
followed by a bend), then a short length of standard
centre line between two warning lines can help to
highlight the separate hazards, even if this results in
fewer than the minimum number of marks being
provided for the second hazard.

Diagram
1012.1
EDGE OF CARRIAGEWAY LINES
4.27 The following types are prescribed:
(i)

diagram 1009 (see figure 4-6, para 4.28

and table 4-5),

(ii) diagram 1010 (see figure 4-7, paras

4.29 and 4.30 and table 4-5),
(iii) diagram 1012.1 (see figure 4-8, paras
4.31 to 4.38 and table 4-5 and, when used
at level crossings, para 19.9), and
(iv) diagrams 1012.2 and 1012.3 (see paras
4.39 to 4.48, table 4-5 and figure 4-9).
4.28 Diagram 1009 should be used to extend the
transverse Give Way and Stop line markings across
the entry half width of the minor road as illustrated in
figures 3-1 and 3-2. It is used across the full width if
the minor road is one-way away from the junction.
The normal width of the line is 100 mm but when it is
used in conjunction with a continuous edge line, the
width should be varied to match. The marking may
be used as an alternative to diagram 1010 across
private driveways where the larger marking would
be impracticable, e.g. because of the narrowness
of the entrance. Where the width of the minor road
is such that Give Way or Stop lines would be less
than 2.75 m long, these should be extended across
the whole width of the road (see para 3.3). The use of
diagram 1009 at the start of cycle lanes is dealt with
in paras 16.6, 16.8 and 16.10.

NOTE
See Chapter 4
for guidance on
use of warning signs

Figure 4-5

18

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4.29 Diagram 1010 is used instead of diagram 1009

at lay-bys and at acceleration and deceleration splays,
and also for emphasising lane drops. Details of the
various prescribed uses are set out in table 4-5. The
marking may be supplemented with uni-directional
reflecting road studs, at the spacing shown in
table 4-5. Green reflectors should be used at lane
drops, along acceleration and deceleration lanes and
at lay-bys.

strips, on motorways, unless profiled edge lines are

used (see paras 4.39 to 4.48) and to delineate
footways at level crossings (see para 19.9).

4.30 Further guidance on the use of diagram 1010

can be found in:

4.33 The marking should be laid with a gap of

approximately 225 mm to the near side edge of the
carriageway. The continuous line should not be
carried across the mouths of side roads, acceleration
or deceleration splays, gaps in the central reservation
or lay-bys, where lines to diagrams 1009 or 1010
should be used.

4.32 Trials have shown that edge markings have

merit as a safety measure despite their efficiency
sometimes being impaired by dirt because of their
location near the edge of the carriageway. They can
also help to protect verges on narrow rural roads.

section 7 for major / minor junctions,

section 10 for grade separated junctions,
section 17 for bus lanes,
section 18 for tram markings, and
section 22 for low bridges.

4.34 Where the carriageway is less than 5.5 m in

width, the centre line should be omitted (see
para 4.6) but edge lines, where used, continued.
Where edge lines are not already in use, their
introduction over the length where the centre line is
interrupted will help draw attention to the hazard.

4.31 Diagram 1012.1 is intended for general use to

delineate the edge of carriageway, particularly on
unlit classified roads and those not having clearly
defined raised kerbs. It should also normally be used
on all-purpose roads with hard shoulders or hard

100 (150) (200)

600
(300)

(100) 150
(200) (250) (300)

(100) 150 (200)

1000

300
(150)
1000

Diagram 1009

Diagram 1010

Diagram 1012.1

Figure 4-6

Figure 4-7

Figure 4-8

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Table 4-5 Edge of carriageway markings

Diag
No.

Mark
(m)

Gap
(m)

Width (mm)

Spacing
of studs
(if used)
(m)

Speed limit (mph)

40
or less

50
or 60

600

300

300

150

100

100

600

300

150

200

70

Not
used

Edge of carriageway at a road junction

when a Give Way or Stop marking is used,
or field entrance or exit from a private
drive onto a public road

100

Not
used

Edge of carriageway at a junction of a

cycle track and another road

200

Not
used

Diagonal marking at the start of a cycle

lane (see also section 16)

Edge of carriageway at a road junction

when a Give Way or Stop marking is not
used, or exit from a private drive onto a
public road, or at a lay-by

See para 4.28

1009

1000

100

150

200

1000

1000

250
or
300

250
or
300

250
or
300

Not
used

Start of a bus lane or interruption of a

with-flow lane at a left turn (see figure
17-1). The line width will match the
associated marking to diagram 1049

1000

1000

100

150

200

Not
used

To show the most suitable path for

vehicles through an arch bridge

1000

1000

100

150

200

Not
used

Edge of part of a carriageway used by

tramcars

1000

1000

100

150

200

See
para
10.11

Division between the main carriageway

and a traffic lane which leaves at a
junction ahead (lane drop)

100

100

150

150

150

200

18

All-purpose roads with hard shoulder or

hard strip

200

200

200

18

Motorways

Continuous

200

200

200

18

Motorways

Continuous

150
or
200

150
or
200

150
or
200

18

All-purpose roads with hard strip or hard

shoulder. The 200 mm wide line must be
used when there is a hard shoulder

1000

1010

1012.1

1012.2

1012.3

Description

Not
All-purpose roads with no hard shoulder
normally
or hard strip
used

Continuous

NOTE: The prescribed colours for road studs and further guidance on spacing are detailed in paras 6.9 to 6.14.

20

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4.35 The following are examples of situations where

the edge of carriageway marking might be
particularly appropriate:
(i)

where the demarcation between the

carriageway and the verge is poor,

(ii)

along lengths prone to fog and mist,

4.38 When depressible studs are used, they should

always be placed on the carriageway side of the edge
line to facilitate the cleaning action of the lenses.
Non-depressible studs also benefit from trafficking to
keep them free from road dirt and maintain their
performance. Except at locations where experience
has shown that placing the studs on the carriageway
side of the edge line reduces their operational life to
unacceptable levels, this may be better than placing
them behind the line. Further guidance on the use of
road studs is given in section 6.

(iii) on heavily-trafficked single carriageway

roads where headlamp dazzle is severe,
(iv) at sudden changes of carriageway width,

RAISED PROFILE EDGE LINES

(v)

on the approaches to narrow bridges,

4.39 Raised profile lines are prescribed for use as an
alternative to the edge of carriageway marking to
diagram 1012.1. They consist of a continuous line
marking with ribs across the line at regular intervals
(see figure 4-9). The vertical edges of the raised ribs
stand clear of the water film in wet conditions,
improving retroreflective performance under
headlight illumination. The ribs also provide an
audible vibratory warning to drivers should they stray
from the carriageway and run onto the marking.

(vi) on the approaches to bends indicated by

bend warning signs,
(vii) at the back of a hard shoulder for use
during contra-flow working. A 100 mm
wide marking is prescribed for this
purpose, and is generally laid 50 mm from
the back of the hard shoulder. It may
remain when the contra-flow has been
removed, or

4.40 Two types are specified, diagram 1012.2 for use

on motorways and diagram 1012.3 for use on allpurpose roads with a hard strip or hard shoulder. The
base marking must be no more than 6 mm high. The
upstand of the ribs above the base marking must not
exceed 11 mm for diagram 1012.2 and 8 mm for
diagram 1012.3. The 500 mm spacing is suitable for
most edge lines laid on the main carriageway. On
motorways, the 250 mm spacing is recommended for
use on slip roads. The closer spacing helps to
maintain the rumble effect, offsetting the likely lower
speed. Closer spacing is not used on all-purpose
roads as it could present a hazard to cyclists. Diagram
1012.2 is always 200 mm wide. Diagram 1012.3 is
usually 150 mm wide but is increased to 200 mm on
all-purpose roads with hard shoulders.

(viii) at traffic calming measures e.g. chicanes.

4.36 Edge lines are also recommended for use along
the off side carriageway edge of unlit dual
carriageway roads. The line should be laid with a gap
of approximately 225 mm to the central reservation.
The marking should not be carried across right turn
lanes or breaks in the central reservation, where lines
to diagram 1010 should be used. Where there is a
hard strip, edge lines should be laid as indicated in
figure 4-19. They should be used on all motorways in
the positions shown in figure 4-20.
4.37 Where, because of the traffic importance or
nature of the road, clearer delineation is required,
red, uni-directional reflecting road studs may be used
on the near side edge (see table 4-5) and, on dual
carriageway roads, amber adjacent to the central
reservation (see also para 6.10).

4.41 Diagram 1012.3 is used on all-purpose roads,

as the more aggressive rib of diagram 1012.2 has an
unacceptable effect on cyclists and pedestrians.

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4.42 The edge lines of the following diagrams may

also make use of raised profile lines:

200

11 max

(i) diagram 1040.3 - reduction of the number

of lanes available,

(250)
500

(ii) diagram 1040.5 - approach to a

termination of the hard shoulder, and
(iii) diagrams 1042 and 1042.1 - chevron
marking, when used between main
carriageway and slip road, or between
bifurcating or converging carriageways (but
not at a roundabout).

Side elevation

4.43 Raised profile markings must not be used as

part of any marking or in any circumstances other
than as specified above.
4.44 Raised profile markings should be discontinued
where pedestrians and cyclists cross the road (e.g. at
refuges) or at other places where cyclists are likely to
cross them. A plain edge line to diagram 1012.1
should be used instead. This should normally extend
a minimum distance of 1 m either side of the crossing
point.

Diagram 1012.2
(for use on motorways)
150 (200)

4.45 Where gullies or similar features occur in the

hard strip, cyclists may need to cross the adjacent
edge line marking in order to avoid them. Any raised
profile marking adjacent to such features should be
replaced with a plain edge line for a distance of 10 m
on each side of the gully.

8 max

500

Side elevation

4.46 When raised profile markings are laid on a

curve of less than 1000 m radius, motorcyclists may
find themselves in difficulty if there is a wide hard
strip or hard shoulder and they are tempted to cross
onto it. The raised ribs tend to destabilise twowheeled vehicles on appreciable bends. If there is any
concern that motorcycles might frequently cut across
the line, the ribs may be omitted, although the
improved night-time wet weather visibility will
obviously not then be available.

Diagram 1012.3
(for use on all purpose
roads with hard strips)

4.47 Drainage gaps of 100 to 150 mm should be

provided at intervals of approximately 36 m where
the longitudinal fall is flatter than 1 in 150, and there
is a crossfall towards the profiled marking.

Figure 4-9

22

LONGITUDINAL LINES

4.48 When raised profile markings are renewed, care

must be taken to ensure that the rib height is not
increased above the maximum height permitted by
the Regulations.

line is considered insufficient at hazards such as a

bend or the brow of a hill. Unless this marking starts
at a physical obstruction, e.g. a refuge, it should
always be preceded by the tapered marking to
diagram 1040. See paras 7.2 to 7.12 for guidance on
the use of hatched markings at a road junction.

HATCHED MARKINGS
4.53 Diagram 1040.3 (figure 4-12) indicates the
approach to a place on a motorway, dual carriageway
road or slip road where the number of lanes is
reduced, or an area of carriageway not available to
traffic. It is bounded by a 200 mm wide continuous
edge marking which may be varied to diagram
1012.2 or 1012.3. It may also be varied to 150 mm
wide when used on all-purpose roads without hard
shoulders. The layout for a main carriageway is
shown in figure 4-13 (see figure 10-4 for slip roads).

4.49 Hatched markings are prescribed as diagrams

1040, 1040.2, 1040.3, 1040.4 and 1040.5. They are
also prescribed in diagrams 1013.3 and 1013.4 (see
section 5 and paras 7.11 and 7.12). Two sets of
dimensions are prescribed where the boundary line is
broken, and are as set out in table 4-3 for diagrams
1004 and 1004.1, i.e. a 4 m mark and 2 m gap where
the speed limit is 40 mph or less, and 6 m mark and
3 m gap where the speed limit is more than 40 mph.
Regulation 12(4) exempts these diagrams from the
requirement that alternative dimensions should
correspond in order to maintain the shape of the
marking. This allows the width of the boundary lines
to be matched to those of the centre line or warning
line at either end of the hatched marking. The
spacing of the diagonal marks is linked to the length
of the boundary lines; the closer spacing and the
wider diagonal mark is used with the longer lines.

Direction of travel

Direction of travel

100 (150)
100 (150)
300
(450)
4000
(6000)

4.50 The tapers should be applied to each side of

the centre line, whether it is straight or curved, at the
rates specified in table 14-1. Diagrams 1040, 1040.3
and 1040.4 may be preceded by the deflection arrow
to diagram 1014 (see figures 4-13 and 13-6, and
table 4-6). Arrows used with diagram 1040 should be
positioned in the centre line and not in the opposing
carriageway as with double white lines, i.e. as shown
in figure 5-2 and not as in figure 5-3.

150
(200)

400 min
2000
(3000)

3000
(2000)

100 min
100
(150)
3000
(2000)

400 min

4000
(6000)

4.51 Diagram 1040 (figure 4-10) is intended to

divide opposing flows of traffic on two-way roads. It
may be used on the approach to refuges as a more
emphatic alternative to the warning line, or to lead
into diagram 1040.2. Where road studs are used,
they must be white, and should be uni-directional. In
diagrams 1040 and 1040.2, one of the boundary
lines is omitted when the marking is placed alongside
diagram 1049 delineating a bus or cycle lane.

150
(200)

2000
(3000)

45

4.52 Diagram 1040.2 (figure 4-11) may be used to

separate opposing flows of traffic where the warning

23

800 min
8000 max

45

800 min
8000 max

Diagram 1040

Diagram 1040.2

Figure 4-10

Figure 4-11

LONGITUDINAL LINES

200
min
300 m
5700

Edge of carriageway

350

200

Diagram 1012.1
Continuous white line
Red studs at
18 metre centres

Diagram 1040.3
Amber / red studs at
9 metre centres

45
500

200 m

400
min

Direction
of travel

Diagram 1040.3

3 deflection arrows
spaced at
2 and 3 seconds
of travel time
at 70 mph.
Proportionately
shorter distances
should be used
for lower speeds

64 m

Lane lines with

white studs at
18 metre centres
96 m

Diagram 1012.1
Continuous white line
Spacing of amber / red
studs to be reduced
to 9 metres from the
first deflection arrow

NOT TO SCALE
Figure 4-13

Figure 4-12

24

LONGITUDINAL LINES

The studs at the edge line should remain amber and

the spacing should be reduced to 9 m along the
length of road from the first deflection arrow
encountered and along the hatching. Vertical signs
to diagrams 872.1 / 876 should also be used in
advance of the taper.
4.54 Diagram 1040.4 (figure 4-14) is used to mark
off an area at the edge of the carriageway which
drivers should not enter unless it is safe to do so. It
will commonly be used to guide traffic past buildouts in traffic calming schemes (see section 21). The
tapers are set out in table 4-6; the shape of the
marking may be varied to suit the road geometry,
provided that the dimensions prescribed in diagram
1040.4 are maintained, and may be reversed. The
boundary to the left of the hatched area may be
formed by diagram 1049 delineating the off-side
edge of a cycle lane.

45

3000

300
min

50
0

150

100 minimum

100

150

150
(200)

150

45

200

100 (150
)

400
min

Edge of carriageway

400
min

Edge of hard shoulder

4000
(6000)
2000
(3000)

200

Hard
shoulder

Direction of travel

Direction
of
travel

Main carriageway

3000
(2000)

Diagram 1040.4

Diagram 1040.5

Figure 4-14

Figure 4-15

25

LONGITUDINAL LINES

4.55 The marking to diagram 1040.5 (figure 4-15)

should be used to indicate the termination of the
hard shoulder. The edge marking is always 200 mm
wide, whether it is used on motorways or on allpurpose roads with full width hard shoulders. Both
longitudinal lines may be formed by the marking to
diagram 1012.2 or 1012.3 as appropriate. Where
there are two terminations in quick succession, the
hard shoulder between them should be hatched off
to discourage its use, as rejoining the motorway from
the isolated section is likely to be difficult.

4.58 The lane line on the leaving carriageway (and

the associated white road studs if used) should be
omitted over the length of the taper, and two
deflection arrows (diagram 1014) should be laid in
the centre of the lane to be lost, in advance of the
taper at the distances shown in table 4-6. The lane
line between the start of the taper and the second
arrow upstream of it should be replaced by a warning
line to diagram 1004 or 1004.1 as appropriate (see
paras 4.12 to 4.26).

END OF DUAL CARRIAGEWAY

4.56 When a dual carriageway road changes to a
single carriageway road other than at a junction,
traffic should be guided into the slower lane when
leaving the dual carriageway section. Details of
appropriate vertical signing can be found in figures
5-1 and 5-2 of Chapter 4.

Diagram
1040

4.57 The reduction in the number of lanes and the

taper to a single carriageway should be achieved
using hatching to diagrams 1040 and 1040.4. The
boundary is derived as follows (see figure 4-16):
(i)

the traffic leaving the dual carriageway

section should be reduced to a single lane
by marking off the outside lane at the
inclinations shown in table 4-6. The full
reduction should be achieved no later than
the end of the central reservation, although
it may occur earlier,

Diagram
1040.4

For details
of taper
and arrows
see table 4-6

(ii) from the point in line with the end of the

central reservation, derived in (i), the
boundary should continue to the centre
line of the single carriageway section at a
taper no sharper than that used in (i)
above; if the dual carriageway section leads
into a right hand bend, it might be better
to use a longer taper length in order to
merge tangentially with the apex,

Diagram
1005 / 1005.1
Diagram
1004 / 1004.1
NOT TO SCALE

(iii) for the carriageway leading to the dual

carriageway section, the boundary line
should extend from the end of the taper
in (ii) to the central reservation.

Diagram
1014
Figure 4-16

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Table 4-6 Taper and arrow details

85 percentile
speed
(mph)

Taper

Up to 30
31 to 40
41 to 50
51 to 60
61 to 70

1 in 40
1 in 40
1 in 45
1 in 50
1 in 55

Distance from tip of arrow to start of taper (m)

Length
of arrow
(m)
4.5
4.5
6
6
9

First arrow

Second arrow

Third arrow

13.75
19.75
21.00
30.00
37.50

43.75
55.75
66.00
84.00
91.50

79.75
109.75
138.00
165.00
190.50

NOTE: Different requirements apply to taper and arrow details for diagram 1040.3; see figure 4-13.
4.59 If road studs are used on the dual carriageway
section, near side red studs should be continued
through the merge. Amber studs should be used with
the boundary line to diagram 1040.4; beyond the
end of the central reservation the studs should revert
to white, but be uni-directional.

placed alongside diagram 1049 delineating a bus or

cycle lane.
4.61 Diagram 1042 (figure 4-18) is intended for use
between a motorway or high standard all-purpose
road and a slip road (see paras 10.2 to 10.12). It may
also be used at the bifurcation or convergence of two
motorways or similar roads. The parallel-sided version
(diagram 1042.1) is used to indicate a segregated left
turn lane (see paras 8.34 to 8.38). The width of the
longitudinal lines may be 150 mm when the marking
is used between two lanes at a roundabout (see
figure 8-5) or on an all-purpose dual carriageway
road without hard shoulders. Except at a roundabout,
the boundary lines may be replaced with the marking
shown in diagram 1012.2 or 1012.3 as appropriate.

CHEVRON MARKINGS
4.60 Diagram 1041 (figure 4-17) and its parallelsided version (diagram 1041.1) are intended to
separate streams of traffic travelling in the same
direction, e.g. on the approach to a junction or to a
pedestrian refuge in a one-way street. One of the
boundary lines is omitted where the marking is

800 min
8000 max

8000 max
45

3000
(2000)

90

2000
(3000)
90

150 (200)

100 (150)
400 min
Direction
of travel

150

45

4000
(6000)

200 (15
0)

100 min

500 min

Direction
of travel

300 (450)

1000

3400

Direction
of travel

100 (150)

600
200

Diagram 1041

Diagram 1042

Figure 4-17

Figure 4-18

27

Direction
of travel

LONGITUDINAL LINES

LAYOUT OF MARKINGS BETWEEN JUNCTIONS

4.62 The chevrons in all diagrams must always point

towards approaching traffic, i.e. in figures 4-17 and
4-18 they should be reversed when traffic is merging.
Where road studs are used, these must be coloured
red. Clearance between the inside edge of the
boundary line and any kerb should be as indicated in
para 4.23.

Hard strip 1.00

4.63 The layout of road markings between junctions

on high standard roads designed to TD 9 / 93 in
Volume 6 of the Design Manual for Roads and
Bridges (see para 1.4) is shown in figure 4-19 for allpurpose roads and figure 4-20 for motorways (all

1.00 Hard strip

7.30 (10.00) Carriageway

3.65 (5.00)

0.15
Edge line

3.65 (5.00)

0.10 (0.15)
Centre line

0.15
Edge line

All-purpose single carriageway road

Dimensions in brackets are for a 10 metre wide single carriageway

Hard shoulder
or
1.00 Hard strip

Central reserve

7.30 Carriageway
3.65

0.15 / 0.20
Edge line

1.00 Hard strip

3.65

0.10 / 0.15
Lane line

0.15 / 0.20
Edge line

Two-lane all-purpose dual carriageway road

See tables 4-2 and 4-5 for guidance on appropriate line width

Hard shoulder
or
1.00 Hard strip

0.15 / 0.20
Edge line

Central reserve

11.00 Carriageway
3.65

3.70

0.10 / 0.15
Lane line

0.10 / 0.15
Lane line

3.65

Three-lane all-purpose dual carriageway road

See tables 4-2 and 4-5 for guidance on appropriate line width

Figure 4-19

28

1.00 Hard strip

0.15 / 0.20
Edge line

LONGITUDINAL LINES

dimensions are in metres). These illustrate the placing

of the lines in relation to the cross section of the road
(see TD 27 / 96 for guidance on marking slip roads).

4.65 Edge lines should be accompanied by red unidirectional retroreflecting road studs adjacent to the
hard shoulder or near side hard strip and, on
motorways and dual carriageway roads, coloured
amber adjacent to the central reservation. For use
during contra-flow working, the amber studs may
have red reflectors on the opposite face. The use of
road studs in conjunction with road markings is dealt
with in more detail in section 6.

4.64 Edge of carriageway markings between the

running lanes and the hard shoulder or hard strip
may use raised rib profiles (diagram 1012.2 on
motorways and 1012.3 on all-purpose roads; see
paras 4.39 to 4.48 for details).

7.30 Carriageway

Hard shoulder

3.65

3.65
0.20
Edge line

Central reserve

0.10 / 0.15
Lane line

0.70
Hard strip

0.20
Edge line

Dual two-lane motorway

See table 4-2 for guidance on appropriate line width

Hard shoulder

0.20
Edge line

11.00 Carriageway

Central reserve

3.60

3.65

3.75

0.10 / 0.15
Lane line

0.10 / 0.15
Lane line

0.20
Edge line

Hard strip
if required

Dual three-lane motorway

See table 4-2 for guidance on appropriate line width

Hard
shoulder

0.20
Edge line

Central
reserve

14.60 Carriageway
3.60

3.65

3.60

3.75

0.10 / 0.15
Lane line

0.10 / 0.15
Lane line

0.10 / 0.15
Lane line

0.20
Edge line

Dual four-lane motorway

See table 4-2 for guidance on appropriate line width

Figure 4-20

29

Hard
strip
if
required

5 DOUBLE WHITE LINES

GENERAL

5.3 A continuous length of double white lines, with

any number of changes between continuous and
broken lines in either direction, comprises a system.
A double white line scheme may comprise any
number of separate systems, interrupted by other
types of marking (e.g. centre lines or warning lines).

5.1 Double white lines (see figure 5-1) are used to

prohibit overtaking where visibility is restricted.
Drivers may cross the line nearer to them when it is
broken, but not when it is continuous. The legal
requirements conveyed by the markings are specified
in regulation 26(2) of the Traffic Signs Regulations
and General Directions 2002 as follows:

5.4 Having regard to the road width required by

buses and goods vehicles, particularly on bends,
double line markings should not normally be used
where the carriageway is less than 6.1 m wide; a
warning line should be used instead. However, an
exception may be made where the width of a road
drops marginally below 6.1 m for a short distance,
and the omission of double lines at places of
restricted visibility within the narrow section might be
misleading.

(a) no vehicle shall stop on any length of road

along which the marking has been placed
at any point between the ends of the
marking, and
(b) every vehicle proceeding on any length of
road along which the marking has been so
placed that, as viewed in the direction of
travel of the vehicle, a continuous line is on
the left of a broken line or of another
continuous line, shall be so driven as to
keep the first-mentioned continuous line
on the right hand or off side of the vehicle.

5.5 Where the forward visibility is less than the

desirable minimum (see para 5.22) it does not
automatically follow that double lines should always
be installed; judgement should be exercised in
deciding whether, having regard to the topographical
and traffic characteristics of the route, it is reasonable
to impose the restrictions or whether the warning
type of marking should be used instead. Double
white lines are in general well respected, but they
impose arbitrary restrictions on some drivers - for
example those who have a better view because they
are seated higher above the road. It is important that
the marking is not used where the appropriate
criteria are not satisfied, otherwise it will be brought
into disrepute and eventually lose the respect of
drivers. Routes, including those that cross traffic
authority boundaries, should be considered as a
whole, in order to maintain consistent standards.

Exceptions are set out in regulations 26(4), 26(5)

and 26(6), which list the circumstances in which
vehicles are permitted to stop on a road marked with
double white lines and the occasions when vehicles
may cross a continuous line. The restriction on
stopping in (a) above applies whether the line closest
to the vehicle is continuous or broken. However, on a
road with more than one traffic lane in each direction
the stopping restriction does not apply. A separate
traffic regulation order would therefore be necessary
to prohibit waiting or loading on, for example, an
urban four-lane road (see para 5.26).

5.6 Traffic authorities should ensure that all

newly-laid double line markings conform to the
criteria set out in the following paragraphs. The
emphasis should always be on not using double lines
except where they are clearly justified on these
criteria, in relation to both the length in question and
as part of the route as a whole.

5.2 Each direction of travel is marked separately

according to the degree of visibility in that direction.
The necessary standard of visibility is governed by the
speed of vehicles on the road; surveys carried out in
the summer and winter months may produce
differing visibility as a result of foliage growth. Where
visibility is just above the minimum standard, but
overtaking may nevertheless present a danger, the
warning line to diagram 1004 or 1004.1 should be
used (see para 4.4). A no overtaking order may be
imposed (see Chapter 3), but this is likely to be
necessary only in very exceptional circumstances.

5.7 It is not necessary to obtain formal authorisation

for the lines because discretion in deciding whether
to use double lines or warning lines is left to traffic
authorities. However, as contravention of the

30

DOUBLE WHITE LINES

prohibitory line is an endorsable offence and is

subject to the totting-up procedure (section 36 of
the Road Traffic Act 1988) the appropriate
Commissioner of Police or Chief Constable should
always be consulted whenever it is proposed to install
new double line markings.

90
min
100
min

5.8 Double lines should not normally be used in

built-up areas, as preventing vehicles from stopping
could be unduly restrictive. They might, however, be
required at certain difficult positions, on three-lane
hills (see para 5.27 to 5.35) or at level crossings (see
paras 19.13 to 19.17).

100
min

100
min

100
min

100
min
45
3000
max

900
max
A

Direction
of travel
90
min
100
min

100
min

1200
max
B

Direction
of travel
90
min
100
min

100
min

Direction
of travel
90
min
100
min
1000

5000
5000
1000

900
max
C

900
max
D
Diagram 1013.1
Figure 5-1

31

900
max
E

100
min

DOUBLE WHITE LINES

5.12 Where the road marking shown in version B of

diagram 1013.1 is so placed that the continuous lines
are more than 175 mm apart and separated by the
cross-hatching shown, the studs may be fitted in
opposite pairs, within the width of each of the two
lines, as an alternative to a single row between them
(regulation 31(4)). When they are fitted in pairs, studs
should be uni-directional so that only the line of
studs nearer to the driver is fitted with reflectors
which can be seen by that driver.

DESCRIPTION
5.9 Double lines consist of a continuous prohibitory
line accompanied either by another continuous line
or by a broken permissive line to provide for the
different forward visibilities in opposite directions.
The broken line comprises 1 m marks with 5 m gaps.
The two lines are normally spaced 175 mm apart
(minimum 90 mm). The Regulations require each line
to be a minimum of 100 mm wide, but 150 mm
should normally be used. The overall maximum width
of both lines and the gap between them must not
exceed 900 mm. If a wider marking is required,
version B prescribed in diagram 1013.1 (see
figure 5-1) may be used, with a maximum overall
width of 1200 mm. The version B marking usually
tapers at each end to connect with version A, but
may abut diagram 1040.2.

DEFLECTION ARROWS
5.13 Direction 48 requires the provision of at least
one arrow to diagram 1014 (see figure 13-6) in
advance of the start of any continuous line which is
on the driver's side, to warn of the approaching
restriction (see also paras 5.16 and 5.18). If space
permits, two arrows should normally be provided.
Where a drivers forward view of the road surface is
limited, as at a crest, a third arrow may be necessary
to give adequate forewarning (see figure 5-2).

5.10 All double white lines must be laid in

reflectorised material (regulation 31). Raised rib
markings (see paras 4.39 to 4.48) must not be used.
When laid in the nominal centre of the carriageway,
they should be placed either symmetrically about the
centre line or with the continuous line along the
centre. The former arrangement would make a new
installation cheaper when road studs (particularly the
depressible type) are already in use. However, if the
road is narrow, the latter layout could be used to give
extra width to the side with the prohibitory line (see
also para 5.4).

5.14 Deflection arrows on the approach to a double

white line system (see para 5.3) are usually positioned
in the centre of the carriageway (see figure 5-2)
replacing one of the centre line marks. Where the
centre is marked using diagram 1040.2, the omission
of a pair of edge marks and the associated diagonals
will emphasise the arrow. Where arrows are required
within a double white line system, they should be
positioned approximately 500 mm to the right of the
continuous line in order to avoid breaking the double
white line pattern (see figure 5-3). All arrows on each
approach must be in line with one another.

ROAD STUDS
5.11 Regulation 31(3) requires double white line
systems to be fitted with road studs. Except in the
circumstances detailed in para 5.12, a single row of
bi-directional reflecting road studs is placed between
the lines at centres between 3 m and 4.5 m. Other
than at level crossings, where a spacing of 4 m should
be used (see para 19.16), it is recommended that
a 4.5 m spacing is adopted on all new installations.
Provided they are within the above range of
dimensions, it is not necessary to change existing
installations to 4.5 m spacing merely to comply with
this paragraph.

5.15 The first arrow should normally be placed a

distance in advance of the start of a continuous line
equivalent to one second of travel, the second arrow
at a point equivalent to a further two seconds of
travel, and the third, where necessary, at a point
equivalent to a distance of a further three seconds of
travel. The spacing for various speeds given in
table 5-1 has been adjusted to fit the standard
modules so that the arrow is positioned equidistantly
between two warning marks.

32

DOUBLE WHITE LINES

Diagram
1013.1

Diagram
1004 / 1004.1
Distance
corresponding
to 1 second
of travel time

Distance
corresponding
to 1 second
of travel time

Diagram
1014
Distance
corresponding
to 2 seconds
of travel time

500
approx

Distance
corresponding
to 2 seconds
of travel time

Distance
corresponding
to 3 seconds
of travel time

This arrow to be
used if the second
arrow is not visible
from a distance
corresponding to
6 seconds of
travel time

Warning arrows on approach to

double lines on a two-lane carriageway

Warning arrows within a double

white line system

Figure 5-2

Figure 5-3

33

DOUBLE WHITE LINES

5.16 Direction 48 provides an exemption to the

requirement for deflection arrows where the
continuous line is interrupted at a junction or at a
refuge (see also para 7.11). They are also not required
if a continuous line commences immediately after the
point where a central reservation ends, or
immediately after a roundabout. However, in the
latter case the use of an arrow is recommended, as
indicated in figure 5-4.

SPLAYED MARKINGS ON BENDS AND CRESTS

5.17 To increase the lateral separation of opposing
traffic on sharp bends or crests, double continuous
lines, where they are justified, may be splayed with a
maximum overall width of 1200 mm (diagram 1013.1
version B); if greater widths are required, diagram
1013.4 should be used (see figures 7.5 and 7.6). It is
essential that there is adequate room on each side to
enable vehicles to negotiate the bend or hump
without crossing the lines. The lines should be
opened out at a taper no sharper than 1 in 50; the
area between them must be hatched with marks of
the same width as the longitudinal lines, at spacings
of not more than 3 m. On a crest, the lines should
attain maximum width at the point of least visibility
(not always the highest point) in each direction. This
hatched marking may be used only between double
continuous lines, never between a continuous and a
broken line.

Diagram
1013.3
Diagram
1040.4
Diagram
1014

INCLINED LINES AT REFUGES

5.18 Double lines should not be splayed where they
meet a refuge. Both lines should be inclined to the
drivers side of the refuge, keeping them parallel to
each other so that traffic is guided safely past the
refuge (see figure 5-5). Guidance on the appropriate
offset between the line and the refuge can be found
in para 4.23. Lines should not be continued alongside
the refuge. Recommended tapers are set out in
table 14-1. Where a refuge interrupts a continuous
line, warning arrows are not required at the
recommencement of the marking after the refuge. If
on the approach to a refuge the line on the drivers

Figure 5-4

Table 5-1 Location of deflection arrows

Speed limit
(mph)

30
40
50
60

Length of
arrow
(m)
4.5
4.5
6
6

Distance of tip of arrow from the start of the unbroken line

(m)
First arrow

Second arrow

Third arrow

13.75
19.75
21.00
30.00

43.75
55.75
66.00
84.00

79.75
109.75
138.00
165.00

34

DOUBLE WHITE LINES

side is broken, it should be replaced with a

continuous line between the refuge and a point V
metres in advance of it (see table 5-2). This avoids
inviting an unsafe overtaking manoeuvre.

Table 5-2 Visibility distance

85 percentile
speed
(mph)

Desirable
minimum
visibility
distance
V (m)

Warning
line visibility
distance
W (m)

Up to 30
31 to 40
41 to 50
51 to 60
Over 60

75
95
120
150
175

115
160
195
240
275

ROAD JUNCTIONS
5.19 Improved visibility sometimes results in
reversion to a broken line on the approach to a
junction. In such cases, it is better to maintain the
continuous line beyond the junction to avoid
encouraging overtaking at an unsuitable point.

is potentially hazardous, but visibility is not so

restricted that overtaking needs to be prohibited (see
paras 4.12 to 4.26).

5.20 The Regulations permit vehicles to cross the

continuous line to enter any other road or private
access (regulation 26(6)). A gap in the line is not
therefore necessary. However, where there is a
dedicated right turn lane this should be marked out
as shown in figure 7-4 and described in para 7.11.
The Directions do not require deflection arrows at the
recommencement of the double line either side of
the junction.

DESIGN PROCEDURE FOR TWO-LANE ROADS

5.23 Double white line systems (see para 5.3) should
not be designed entirely on the basis of plans and
sight distance data. A site visit should always be
made, and other relevant information such as the
accident record taken into account. The complete
scheme, with all adjustments, deflection arrows and
associated markings should then be designed on a
large-scale plan before any markings are laid on the
road. The visibility distances used to determine the
double line scheme should be based on actual 85th
percentile measured speeds where this is higher than
the speed limit. For measured 85th percentile speeds
of 30 mph or less (see table 5-2) the visibility
distances for 30 mph should be used.

5.21 The use of double white lines in conjunction

with a right turn lane on a road with a climbing lane
is dealt with in para 7.12.

VISIBILITY DISTANCE
5.22 Visibility distance is defined as the maximum
distance at which an object 1.05 m above the
carriageway can be seen by an observer at the same
height, taking account of vertical as well as
horizontal curvature. In table 5-2, for each speed
interval, V is the desirable minimum visibility distance
and W is the warning line visibility distance as
measured between points on the centre of the
carriageway. Warning lines are laid where overtaking

Step 1

Determine traffic speeds along the section

for each direction of travel. From table 5-2,
find the desirable minimum visibility V for
each part of the section, in each direction.

For angle of taper see table 14-1

Figure 5-5

35

DOUBLE WHITE LINES

Step 2

For one direction of travel, mark each of the

points where desirable minimum visibility
distance V is lost, and where it is regained.
Each of these pairs of points can now be
joined by a continuous white line to create a
series of line segments, except where such a
segment would be shorter than V / 4, and
would be separated from its preceding and
succeeding segments by at least the relevant
V (note 1(a) below); such short isolated
segments should not be marked as
continuous unless there is very good
justification for retaining them.

Gaps shorter than the relevant V (note 1(a))

between continuous line segments should
be closed by extending the continuous line.

Step 5

Repeat Steps 2, 3 and 4 for the other

direction of travel.

Step 6

On the plan, mark broken lines alongside

remaining single continuous lines, on the
appropriate side (i.e. on the side for the
direction of travel in which a driver has
visibility better than V). This will result in the
creation of a number of lengths of double
white lines.

Step 7

If the gap between two lengths of double

white line systems is shorter than half the
relevant V value (notes 1(b) and 2 below),
the systems should be extended, without a
change in pattern, to fill the gap. Normally
the systems would meet in the middle of the
gap, but the designer should adjust the
point of meeting to minimise loss of length
from overtaking sections (note 3), or to avoid
the release of traffic at an unsuitable point.

If this joining of systems results in a length

of broken line within the resulting system
(i.e. not at one end) that is shorter than the
relevant V (note 1(a)), then that length of
broken line should be replaced by a
continuous line.

Step 9

If the gap between two systems is greater

than half the relevant V (note 1(b)), but less
than the relevant W (note 4), warning lines
should be laid in the gap between the
systems.

Step 10 If traffic leaving a length of double white

lines is subject to a continuous line that
extends beyond the point where the
continuous line for traffic in the other
direction starts, and it seems that this might
cause confusion, the inbound continuous
line may be started sooner, at the designers
discretion.

Step 3 On the exit from a left hand bend, the

continuous line should be extended until the
warning line visibility distance W is attained,
or the road ceases to curve to the left,
whichever results in the shorter line.
Step 4

Step 8

NOTES:
1(a) In a particular direction, the relevant V
value for a gap between two continuous lines is
taken to be the same as that used to determine
the start of the continuous line after the gap.
(b) When considering the gap between two
systems, if the application of note 1(a) results in
a different V in each direction, the greater
value should be used.
2
V / 2 is used here in preference to V to avoid
excessive lengths of unnecessary continuous
line. Overtaking lengths less than V that might
arise are closed later, at Step 8.
3
When adjusting the meeting point of
systems, the designer should take account of
the availability of other (perhaps safer)
overtaking opportunities in the vicinity.
4
The relevant W value at any point is taken to be
that for the speed corresponding to the
relevant V value at that point, defined under
1(a) and 1(b) above.

36

DOUBLE WHITE LINES

5.24 The above procedure achieves the following:

(i)

slower vehicles do not have to change lanes at either

end. The procedure for marking three-lane hills, set
out below, is designed to result in markings that
allow downhill overtaking only at those locations
where visibility is extensive in both directions.

the minimum length for an overtaking

stretch is V,

(ii) the minimum length for a broken line

element within a system is V, and

5.28 A three-lane hill is marked with a lane line

(diagram 1005 or 1005.1) separating the two uphill
lanes, and a double white line separating them from
the downhill lane (see figure 5-6). Where the
carriageway width is the standard 10 m (excluding
any edge strips) it should be marked so that the uphill
climbing lane is 3.2 m wide and the other lanes each
3.4 m wide. For further details see TD 9 / 93 in the
Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (Volume 6).

(iii) the minimum length for a stretch of

warning line between two systems is V / 2.
This minimises both frequent changes of pattern and
the length of continuous line put down at places
where visibility is adequate.

THREE-LANE ROADS

5.29 The double white line will always feature a

continuous line on the side of the uphill traffic. On
the downhill side, where certain criteria are met, the
line may be broken to permit overtaking. These
criteria are determined as follows:

5.25 The use of offset double lines on alternate

sections of three-lane roads (other than three-lane
hills, see paras 5.27 to 5.32) to facilitate overtaking in
the centre lane is not recommended. Drivers will not
respect restrictions which have no apparent
justification. Carriageways 10 m or more in width
may be marked with a centre of carriageway marking
in accordance with table 4-3, or with double white
lines if there are four or more lanes (see para 5.26).

(i) establish the 85th percentile traffic speed

for the downhill direction, and determine
from table 5-2 the appropriate warning
line visibility distance W,
(ii) measure downhill visibility with the
observer on the proposed alignment of the
double white line, but with two targets,
one on the proposed alignment, and the
other on the lane line separating the two
uphill lanes. The visibility criteria are
satisfied only when both targets are
simultaneously visible at a distance W from
the observer, and when no part of the
sight line to the target on the lane line at
any point passes over the inside uphill lane
(where it could be obscured by an uphill
vehicle). This ensures adequate forward
vision for a driver in either direction who
intends using the centre lane to overtake,

FOUR-LANE ROADS
5.26 On single carriageway roads with two or more
lanes in each direction, the centre may be marked
with a double continuous line irrespective of visibility.
This should eliminate the possibility of a vehicle
overtaking in one direction being confronted by an
opposing vehicle which is double overtaking by
crossing the centre line.

THREE-LANE HILLS
5.27 A three-lane hill is intended to provide two
lanes for ascending traffic so that faster-moving
vehicles may overtake slower ones in safety. The
downhill traffic may be fully confined to one lane, or
partially confined if overtaking is permitted. The left
hand uphill lane should be a continuation of the near
side lane, with the widening to the right, so that

(iii) a broken line is installed for downhill

traffic only where the criteria in Step 2 of
para 5.23 are satisfied, and only if it can
be installed for a minimum length W.
Otherwise a continuous line is used to
prohibit downhill overtaking.

37

DOUBLE WHITE LINES

50 m

Diagram
1013.1
Taper
between
1 in 30
and
1 in 40

Distance equal to
W from table 5-2
(see para 5.30)

Diagram
1005 / 1005.1

Taper
between
1 in 30
and
1 in 40

Taper
between
1 in 30
and
1 in 40

Diagram
1013.3

Diagram
1013.1

Diagram
1004 / 1004.1
(see para 5.30)

100 m

Diagram
1014

Diagram
1004 / 1004.1

Diagram
1014
NOT TO SCALE

Diagram
1005 / 1005.1
End of climbing lane

Start of climbing lane

Figure 5-6

38

DOUBLE WHITE LINES

To avoid frequent changes of pattern on long hills, or

for safety reasons, the designer may on occasion use
a downhill continuous line even when the visibility
criteria for a broken line in Step 2 are satisfied,
although the use of a prohibitory line on long
straight sections should be avoided if possible.
5.30 The marking at the commencement of the
climbing lane is designed to encourage uphill drivers
to keep to the near side lane unless overtaking. In
order to avoid a potential conflict at this point
between uphill and downhill overtaking traffic, a
length of double continuous line should be provided
for a length equal to W in table 5-2 for the speed of
the uphill traffic. This ensures that any downhill
overtaking vehicle will be returned to the near side
lane before coming into conflict with an uphill vehicle
beginning an overtaking manoeuvre at the start of
the climbing lane (see figure 5-6). In addition, the
double white line may be extended to divide
opposing traffic over the taper in order to prevent
overtaking by downhill traffic. However, if visibility
over this length is good, then observance may be
poor and a warning line might be more effective.

Diagram 1013.1
Version B
150 m

5.31 This procedure will still allow downhill

overtaking on long straight, or nearly straight, hills.
It will restrict it elsewhere, particularly in those cases
where visibility is poor for an uphill inside lane vehicle
trying to pull out from behind a large vehicle.

NOT TO SCALE

5.32 The alignment at the end of a climbing lane

should place the onus on the overtaking driver to
rejoin the inside lane. Care should be taken to ensure
that the return to a single lane does not occur where
junctions or sharp curves may cause problems. See
figure 5-6 for the layout of markings at the top and
bottom of a climbing lane. Signs to diagram 517
should also be used (see Chapter 4, para 4.3).

1200
max

3000
max

LAYOUT AT SAG CURVES

Version B

5.33 Where there are climbing lanes on both sides

of a sag curve, a conventional two-lane road layout
may be used to link them, provided this is at least
500 m in length between tapers. For shorter lengths,
the intervening carriageway should be maintained
at 10 m wide and the climbing lanes extended

Layout of markings at sag

between two climbing lanes
Figure 5-7

39

DOUBLE WHITE LINES

Taper
between
1 in 30
and
1 in 40

Diagram
1013.3

Diagram
1013.3

200 m
min

200 m
min

Diagram
1014

Hatched areas
must not overlap

Diagram
1013.3

Taper
between
1 in 30
and
1 in 40

Diagram
1013.3

NOT TO SCALE

NOT TO SCALE

Figure 5-9

Figure 5-8

40

DOUBLE WHITE LINES

downhill until they meet, using a road marking to

diagram 1013.1 version B (see figure 5-7). The taper
in the version B marking (see figure 5-1) should not
be sharper than 1 in 50.

LAYOUT AT CRESTS
5.34 Where there are climbing lanes on both sides of
the hill and the road has been widened on the crest
to 13.2 m, as indicated in TD 9 / 93 (Amendment
No. 1) in Volume 6 of the Design Manual for Roads
and Bridges (see para 1.4) then:
(i)

if the length of 13.2 m wide carriageway

(including any hatched area) between the
tapers is 500 m or more, a conventional
layout should be used between the tapers,

(ii) if the length of 13.2 m wide carriageway

between the tapers is less than 500 m, the
climbing lanes should overlap as shown in
figure 5-8. In this case the distance
between the tapers (i.e. the length
of 13.2 m carriageway including hatching)
should not be less than 200 m.
5.35 If the carriageway over the crest remains
unchanged in width at 10 m, the marking layout
shown in figure 5-9 should be adopted.

LEVEL CROSSINGS
5.36 Double white lines are used at some level
crossings even when the conditions do not meet the
visibility criteria in table 5-2 (see paras 19.9 to 19.17
for details). Markings should be installed at level
crossings only after consultation with HM Railway
Inspectorate.

41

6 ROAD STUDS
GENERAL

studs on the far side of the hatching or taper being

brighter than those on the nearer side. There is then
a risk of drivers being guided onto the hatched area.

6.1 Retroreflective road studs are frequently used to

supplement longitudinal road markings. They depend
for their brightness on the light from a vehicles
headlamps being reflected back towards the source.
The driver sits behind the headlamps and sees a
bright reflection from the stud. They are used in
addition to reflectorised lines where traffic flows are
high, particularly on roads without street lighting.
They remain effective in wet weather and also in
areas prone to fog, when the efficiency of reflective
markings is reduced.

TYPE APPROVAL
6.6 BS 873: Part 4 has been replaced by the
European Standard BS EN 1463, and the former type
approval process under which studs had to be
approved by the Secretary of State has been
superseded. Type approval will continue to be
needed for studs outside the scope of the European
Standard, e.g. those which incorporate a light source.
The minimum performance requirement for
retroreflective road studs is now specified in
direction 57 by reference to the appropriate classes
set out in parts 1 and 2 of BS EN 1463.

6.2 Regulations 31(3) and (7) require white road

studs to be used in conjunction with the double
white line system (diagrams 1013.1, 1013.3 and
1013.4). They are usually placed in a single row
between the lines, but regulation 31(4) permits a
double row in certain circumstances (see paras 5.11
and 5.12).

TYPES OF ROAD STUD

6.3 Road studs may be used with most other

longitudinal white lines (see direction 31(5), (6) and
(7)). They are always used on motorways, and are
recommended for use on high speed all-purpose
roads, even when street lighting is provided.

6.7 Studs may be permanent or temporary, and use a

glass or plastic reflector, or a plastic reflector with an
abrasion resistant protective coating. The standard
provides several different photometric performance
classes, depending on the stud type.

6.4 For guidance on the use of road studs at the

change from dual to single carriageway, see
paras 4.58 and 4.59. The positioning of studs relative
to edge lines is dealt with in para 4.38.

6.8 Studs may also be depressible or nondepressible. In the former, the stud is mounted in a
base unit which is embedded into the carriageway. It
is designed in such a way that a passing vehicle
depresses the stud thus wiping the reflectors clean by
a squeegee action. Non-depressible studs with
rigid retroreflectors can be surface bonded or
anchored using suitable adhesives, or embedded into
the carriageway using a base unit. The maximum
prescribed height for a depressible stud is 25 mm and
for a non-depressible stud 20 mm (regulation 32).

6.5 Bi-directional road studs may be used for certain

applications on single carriageway roads, including
the double white lines in diagrams 1013.1,1013.3
and 1013.4 (subject to the exception described in
para 5.12), and should always be used in a line that
separates opposing flows of traffic. They are not
appropriate for marking lines bounding central
hatched markings; these should make use of the unidirectional type. This is because bi-directional studs
can make the hatched area appear to be another
traffic lane, especially on wet roads at night, when
the hatched markings may not be clearly visible.
Moreover, because reflectors on the leading edge of
a bi-directional stud tend to deteriorate faster than
those on the trailing edge, it can also result in the

COLOUR OF ROAD STUDS

6.9 Retroreflecting road studs are prescribed for use
with reflectors coloured white, red, amber or green
(regulation 31(7)). The colours are specified by
chromaticity co-ordinates in BS EN 1463-1 and are
used as follows:

42

ROAD STUDS

WHITE - to indicate a traffic lane or centre of

carriageway marking.

(iii) a natural metallic finish, or

(iv) any other neutral colour (including black).

RED

- to indicate a line of studs which should not

be crossed. It is used mainly to delineate
the left hand edge of the running
carriageway; studs are omitted at positions
where traffic is permitted to cross, e.g. at
lay-bys (where green studs are normally
substituted). Where studs are used with
chevron markings to diagram 1041,
1041.1, 1042 or 1042.1 they must be
coloured red on both sides of the marking.

In the case of studs placed temporarily at road works,

the stud body must be fluorescent green / yellow. The
use of temporary studs is described in Chapter 8.

STUD SPACING
6.12 The spacing of road studs used with double
white lines is dealt with in para 5.11. The spacing of
studs used with centre lines and lane lines is
described in tables 4-1, 4-2 and 4-3, and studs used
in conjunction with continuous edge lines or with
diagram 1010 in table 4-5 and para 10.11.

AMBER - to indicate a line of studs which should not

be crossed. It is used to indicate the right
hand edge of the running carriageway
adjacent to the edge of the central
reservation or to traffic cones or cylinders at
road works, or the marking to diagram
1040.3. Amber studs are also used on the
off side of a one-way road (including oneway slip roads and link roads).

6.13 On dual carriageway roads where red, white

and amber studs are used, these are normally spaced
at 18 m intervals. There may be some minor
advantage in offsetting the white lane line studs 9 m
longitudinally relative to the red and amber studs.
Where red studs are used adjacent to chevron
markings, the spacing should be closed up to 3 m
centres.

GREEN - to indicate a length of the edge of the

carriageway which may be crossed. Green
studs are used with markings to diagram
1010 (see paras 4.29 and 4.30) at lay-bys
and to mark the boundary of acceleration
and deceleration lanes on the left hand
side of the carriageway. They must not be
used in conjunction with Stop or Give Way
transverse markings, or with diagram 1009.
At lane-drop junctions, and right turn
lanes, (see figure 7-7) green studs are used
with the marking to diagram 1010 which
demarcates the exit lane.

6.14 The standard 18 m spacing should be reduced

to 9 m on bends with a radius of curvature less than
450 m, or on roads particularly prone to fog and mist
or where there is a severe dazzle problem caused by
glare from the headlamps of oncoming vehicles.

ROAD STUDS AT CROSSINGS

6.15 Road studs to diagram 1055.1 or 1055.2 used
to mark a crossing place must be coloured white,
silver or light grey (regulation 11(4)). They may not be
fitted with reflective lenses or with a steady or
intermittent light source, but may be formed from
retroreflecting material. Although the Regulations
permit the use of stainless steel, aluminium,
thermoplastic or paint products, some types of metal
studs can be slippery when wet, and the potential risk
to two-wheeled traffic should be borne in mind.
Similar considerations apply to the studs used at
other types of pedestrian crossing.

6.10 On dual carriageway roads, amber studs placed

adjacent to the central reservation may have red
reflectors on the reverse for use when contra-flow
working is needed for road maintenance purposes.
6.11 The colour of the road stud body may be:
(i)

white,

(ii) the same as the reflectors or retroreflecting

material,

43

7 MAJOR / MINOR JUNCTIONS

SIMPLE JUNCTIONS

7.4 The through lane in each direction ((c) in

figure 7-2) should not be more than 3.65 m wide,
exclusive of hard strips, nor less than 3 m. The
desirable width of the turning lane (d) is 3.5 m,
although this may be reduced to 3 m (but see
para 7.5). At urban junctions it can sometimes be
advantageous to use a wider turning lane, not
exceeding 5 m. This provides some degree of shelter
in the centre of the road, helping vehicles turning
right from the minor road to make the turn in two
separate stages. On rural roads, with speeds above
85 kph (50 mph), or where hard strips are present,
widths greater than 3.65 m are inadvisable because
wide ghost islands in these situations create a sense
of space which could encourage overtaking at
hazardous locations. Where space is very limited, a
reduced width may be unavoidable. In such cases the
width of ghost islands should not be less than 2.5 m,
except as described in para 7.5.

7.1 Figure 7-1 illustrates the layout of simple

T-junctions. Guidance on the use of Give Way lines
(diagram 1003) can be found in paras 3.14 to 3.23,
on warning lines (diagrams 1004 / 1004.1) in paras
4.12 to 4.26 and on edge lines (diagrams 1009 and
1010) in paras 4.28 to 4.30. Table 7-1 gives details of
the warning line, road studs and the minimum
number of marks to be used where practicable. This
number may not always be achievable on the minor
road if this is narrow.

GHOST ISLAND JUNCTIONS

7.2 Ghost island junctions are usually provided to
afford right-turning vehicles some protection and
assist free flow of major road through traffic.

7.5 On narrow urban roads it might not be possible

to provide full width right-turning lanes. It might still
be worth offsetting the main road centre line towards
the minor road and using hatched markings to
diagram 1040, even if the hatched width is less than
2.5 m. This can create space to help ahead traffic pass
right-turning vehicles and make the junction more
conspicuous. However, this technique is not
appropriate where the speed limit is more than
30 mph, or the carriageway is less than 7.3 m wide.
No through lane should be narrower than 3 m.

7.3 The use of ghost islands on unrestricted rural

single carriageway roads can sometimes pose safety
problems. Where overtaking opportunities on the
major road are limited, the presence of a widened
carriageway, albeit with hatched markings, might
result in overtaking manoeuvres which conflict with
right turns into and out of the minor road. Where this
proves to be a problem, consideration should be
given to the use of kerbed islands to prevent
overtaking and to guide traffic through the junction.
Alternatively, double white lines as described in
paras 7.11 and 7.12 may be used.

Table 7-1 Warning lines at major / minor junctions on single carriageway roads
Diag
No.

Speed
limit
(mph)

Mark
(m)

Gap
(m)

Width
(mm)

Spacing
of studs
if used
(m)

Minimum number of
marks on each approach
Speed limit (mph)
Over 40

40

30

1004

40 or
less

100
(see note)

1004.1

Over 40

100
(see note)

NOTE: The width should be increased to 150 mm if the road is 10 m or more in width with no ghost island.

44

MAJOR / MINOR JUNCTIONS

Diagram
1004 / 1004.1

Diagram
1009

Diagram
1010

Diagram
1023

Diagram 616

Diagram
1003

Figure 7-1

45

MAJOR / MINOR JUNCTIONS

7.6 Central islands should normally be developed to

their maximum width symmetrically about the centre
line of the major road using diagram 1040 at the
tapers set out in table 7-2.

(iv)

7.7 The right turn lane is made up of the following

elements (see figure 7-2):
(i)

direct taper length (e); this is the length

over which the width (d) of a rightturning lane is developed. It should be
introduced by means of a direct taper
which is part of the deceleration length.
Its length depends upon the traffic speed
and can be found from table 7-2.

7.8 At left / right staggered junctions (see figure 7-3),

the deceleration lengths will overlap, but the width
of the ghost island should not be increased to
accommodate them. The starting points of the right
turn lane should be joined by a straight line to
diagram 1004 or 1004.1 over the direct taper length
(which will be common to both right turn lanes).

turning length (a); this allows long vehicles

to position themselves correctly for the
right turn. The turning length should be
10 m, measured from the centre line of the
minor road irrespective of the type of
junction, design speed or gradient. Where
capacity calculations indicate that for
significant periods of time there will be
vehicles queuing to turn right from the
major road, the turning length should be
increased to allow for a reservoir queuing
length to accommodate them. Where this
is necessary, consideration should be given
to providing physical islands to afford
greater protection to turning traffic,

7.9 Where the 85th percentile speed is 40 mph or

more, two deflection arrows to diagram 1014 (see
figure 13-6) should be used on each approach to a
ghost island marking; they may also be used where
the speed is lower. A third arrow may be used if
visibility is limited or if late overtaking is a problem.
The spacing depends on the speed limit in the same
manner as for double white lines (see para 5.15). The
location of arrows in relation to the start of the taper
is equivalent to the distances in table 5-1 indicating
the position of arrows relative to the start of a
continuous white line. The use of deflection arrows in
association with double white lines is shown in
figures 5-2 and 5-3.

(ii) deceleration length (b); this component of

the right turn lane depends upon speed
and gradient; its length can be found from
table 7-2,
(iii) lane widths (c) and (d) (see para 7.4), and

Table 7-2 Ghost island dimensions

85 percentile
Taper
either side
speed
of centre line
(mph)

Up to 30
31 to 40
41 to 50
51 to 60
61 to 70

1 in 40
1 in 40
1 in 45
1 in 50
1 in 55

Deceleration length (b)

(m)
Up gradient

Down gradient

0-4%

Over 4%

0-4%

Over 4%

25
30
50
75
100

25
25
35
50
70

25
30
50
75
100

25
50
75
105
135

46

Direct taper
length (e)
(m)

5
10
15
25
30

MAJOR / MINOR JUNCTIONS

NOTES
a - see para 7.7
b- see table 7-2
c - see para 7.4
d- see para 7.4
e - see para 7.7

Diagram
1039
c

Diagram
1004 / 1004.1

Figure 7-3

Figure 7-2

47

MAJOR / MINOR JUNCTIONS

7.10 Lane indication arrows should be used as

follows:
(i)

bifurcation arrow to diagram 1039 at the

start of the direct taper length, except
where the right turn lane is less than 2.5 m
wide (see paras 7.5, 13.10 to 13.14, 14.7
and figure 13-6),

(ii) lane arrows to diagram 1038 (figure 13-1)

should be placed as shown in figures 7-2
and 7-3. Except in the case of a short right
turn lane for the left / right stagger, at least
two arrows per lane should be provided
whenever possible, the last being opposite
the minor road entry. A right turn arrow
should not be used in the ahead lane, as
traffic does not turn from that lane. The 4 m
arrow should be used for speed limits up to
40 mph and the 6 m arrow for 50 and
60 mph limits.
7.11 To discourage overtaking on the immediate
approach to a right turn lane, double white lines may
be provided as shown in figure 7-4 using diagrams
1013.1 and 1013.3, even where the usual visibility
requirements are not met (but see para 5.7). The
maximum width of the former marking is 1200 mm.
The lines must not be splayed over a greater width.
Unless the visibility criteria are satisfied, the lines
should not be extended beyond the immediate area
of the junction. Coloured surfacing may be used
under the hatched marking to improve conspicuity
and discourage encroachment. The Regulations
provide an exemption (regulation 26(6)) permitting
vehicles to cross the continuous line to enter any
other road or private access joining the road along
which the line is placed. A gap in the line is therefore
not necessary. However, where there is a dedicated
right turn lane this should be marked as shown in
figure 7-4. Deflection arrows to diagram 1014 are
required at the start of the double white line, but not
where the double line recommences on either side of
the junction (see para 5.16).

For details of
lengths and
tapers see
figure 7-2

NOT TO SCALE
7.12 A right turn lane on a road with a climbing lane
should be marked as shown in figures 7-5 and 7-6 for
uphill and downhill directions respectively. The
continuous lines are placed on the side of the

Figure 7-4

48

MAJOR / MINOR JUNCTIONS

Diagram
1013.4

Diagram
1004 / 1004.1
Downhill

Uphill

Diagram
1013.3

NOT TO SCALE

Figure 7-6

Figure 7-5

49

MAJOR / MINOR JUNCTIONS

hatching that maximises protection for vehicles using

the right turn lane, except that where such vehicles
are travelling uphill, the continuous lines are on the
side that discourages downhill overtaking.

Diagram 1004 / 1004.1

Minimum number of marks

DUAL CARRIAGEWAY JUNCTIONS

Speed limit
(mph)

Number
of marks

40 or above

less than 40

7.13 The standard layout for right turns on dual

carriageway roads is shown in figure 7-7. The
through lanes should maintain their width, and be
separated from the right turn lane by a line to
diagram 1010, with a width of 100 mm for a speed
limit of 40 mph or less, 150 mm for 50 or 60 mph and
200 mm for 70 mph (see table 4-5).
7.14 The lane line through a dual carriageway road
junction should be formed of a warning line (to
diagram 1004 or 1004.1 as appropriate) in each
carriageway as indicated in figure 7-7.

Green uni-directional
studs may be used,
placed to face vehicles
in the right turn lane

7.15 For guidance on determining the appropriate

length of right turn lanes see para 7.7. For details of
the markings used at grade separated junctions see
section 10.

SINGLE LANE DUALLING

Diagram 1010
(green uni-directional
studs may be used)

7.16 At single lane dual carriageway junctions (see

figure 7-8), the through lane in each direction should
be 4.0 m wide, exclusive of hard strips which will
normally be 1.0 m wide. Motor vehicles can be
discouraged from encroaching onto the hard strips
and hatched areas by the use of coloured surfacing as
shown in figure 7-8.
7.17 The central reservation opening should be
marked to provide a priority arrangement. This
should help to reduce uncertainty and discourage
parallel queuing of cars in this area.

Figure 7-7

50

MAJOR / MINOR JUNCTIONS

Diagram
1010

Diagram
1010

Diagram
1012.1 / 1012.3

Diagram
1041

Diagram
1010

Diagram
1041

Diagram
1012.1 / 1012.3

NOT TO SCALE

A
Figure 7-8

51

8 ROUNDABOUTS
mini, double and signalled. These are discussed in
the following paragraphs:

GENERAL
8.1 The general rule governing the behaviour of
traffic at roundabouts is that drivers should give way
to any traffic on their immediate right unless road
markings indicate otherwise. This is implemented by
the provision of an advisory Give Way line (see
paras 8.8 and 8.15) across the entry arm of a
roundabout.

(i)

conventional roundabout (see paras 8.7

to 8.9),

(ii) mini-roundabout (see paras 8.10 to 8.17),

(iii) double roundabout (see paras 8.18
and 8.19), and

8.2 At all roundabouts (except those controlled by

traffic signals for 24 hours per day, see paras 8.20
and 8.21) the appropriate prescribed Give Way line
should be laid at each entry and should connect the
central warning line, deflection island or central
reservation to the near side kerb approximately
following the line of the inscribed circle. This allows
vehicles in the near side lane to be positioned further
into the roundabout than those in the off side lane,
improving visibility to the right.

(iv) signalled roundabout (see paras 8.20

and 8.21).
8.6 Other features used include lane markings in the
circulating area (see paras 8.22 to 8.29), lane
destination markings and arrows (see paras 8.30
to 8.33) and segregated left turn lanes (see
paras 8.34 to 8.38).

8.3 Centre lines and, where provided, lane lines on

the approach to roundabouts should be replaced by
warning lines (see paras 4.9, 4.24 and table 4-3).
Where possible the number of lanes on the approach
to the Give Way line should be increased. This will
ensure that maximum use is made of gaps in the
circulating traffic. However, care should be taken to
avoid releasing too much traffic for the space
available to receive it. Where the carriageway is
widened on the approach to a roundabout and extra
lanes provided, drivers should be made aware of this
by marking the lanes as early as possible. However,
no lane should be less than 2 m wide at the start of
the taper, nor less than 3 m wide at the Give Way line
(see figure 8-1).

CONVENTIONAL ROUNDABOUTS

8.4 It is important to provide adequate vehicular

deflection through a roundabout to limit vehicle
speeds. TD 16 / 93 in Volume 6 of the Design Manual
for Roads and Bridges (see para 1.4) shows how
vehicle paths are determined, and how they may be
controlled in order to increase deflection.

8.9 The number of lanes on the approach should be

increased where there is room to do so. Extra lanes
will increase capacity only if there is sufficient
circulating width in the roundabout to accept the
traffic and sufficient exit lanes to clear it. Normally it
will be the near side lane that widens to provide the
extra lane, but widening on the off side provides an
extra lane for right-turning traffic.

8.7 These have a one-way circulatory carriageway

around a kerbed central island, often with flared
approaches to allow multiple vehicle entry (see
figure 8-1). Physical splitter islands are used to guide
traffic and ensure adequate deflection.
8.8 The Give Way marking to diagram 1003.1 is
used; the 200 mm wide line at sites where the speed
limit is 40 mph or less and the 300 mm size where the
limit is greater than 40 mph. The marking to diagram
1003.3 should be adopted when the roundabout has
a small central island, up to approximately 4 m in
diameter.

8.5 The main kinds of roundabouts in use are

described as conventional (normal in TD 16 / 93),

52

ROUNDABOUTS

Diagram
1005 / 1005.1

Diagram
1004 / 1004.1

Diagram
1003.1

Diagram
1004 / 1004.1

2 m min
3 m min

Diagram
1040

Figure 8-1

53

ROUNDABOUTS

MINI-ROUNDABOUTS

8.14 The central disc of the mini-roundabout

marking may be domed up to a maximum height
of 125 mm (regulation 32(2)(c)), but must not
exceed 6 mm at the perimeter. This will increase the
conspicuity of the roundabout, particularly in wet
weather. However, research evidence indicates that
accident rates at domed roundabouts are slightly
higher than at flush roundabouts, although the
accident severity is less. The dome may be formed in
bituminous or other suitable material, but the surface
must be coloured white and be retroreflective.

8.10 Mini-roundabouts can be very effective in

improving existing urban junctions which experience
safety and side road delay problems, and can often
be installed with minimal alterations to kerbs etc.
They have a one-way circulatory carriageway around
a flush or slightly raised central disc, with or without
flared approaches. Three arrows around the central
disc indicate the direction of circulation. The marking
(diagram 1003.4) carries no street furniture, and may
be overrun by large vehicles if necessary.

8.15 The standard Give Way marking used at miniroundabouts is diagram 1003.3. When used at miniroundabouts, it must be accompanied by the upright
sign to diagram 611.1 and may be accompanied by
diagram 1023. In certain circumstances the Give Way
marking to diagram 1003 may be used (see para 8.17
and figure 8-3). Diagram 611.1 will normally be sited
about 1.5 m in advance of the Give Way marking.
This might have to be increased if the sign would not
otherwise be clearly visible.

8.11 The layout should be designed so that drivers

are made aware in good time that they are
approaching a roundabout. Mini-roundabouts should
be used only when all approaches are subject to a
speed limit of 30 mph or less. Their use on roads with
a higher speed limit is not recommended as it is
seldom possible to achieve adequate deflection and
the marking may not be sufficiently conspicuous at
higher speeds.

8.16 Road markings or small traffic islands should be

placed so as to ensure some vehicle deflection on the
approaches; hatched markings to diagram 1040 can
often help. Physical islands should be kept free of all
furniture except the keep left bollards and other
essential signs. Where an existing junction is being
converted to a mini-roundabout, it may not be
practicable to achieve the ideal amount of deflection.
However, this may be acceptable if approach speeds
are low.

8.12 Two size ranges are prescribed for the miniroundabout marking (see figure 8-2); the choice will
depend on the road space available and the need for
conspicuity. The larger range should be used
wherever it is needed to provide adequate deflection
and deter straight through movement. The smaller
range may be adequate at more constricted sites
where the marking would otherwise occupy too large
a part of the carriageway space and might be
confusing, or where frequent overrunning would
result in excessive maintenance costs.

8.17 Where suitable deflection cannot be achieved,

traffic entering the roundabout might, because of its
approach speed, disregard the standard advisory
Give Way line (diagram 1003.3). In such cases, the
mandatory GIVE WAY sign to diagram 602 may be
mounted on the same post and above the sign to
diagram 611.1. The GIVE WAY sign should not be
used where it could confuse drivers into giving way
to traffic from the left as well as from the right, e.g.
on the stem of a T-junction or on any arm of a fourway junction. When diagram 602 is used, it must be
accompanied by diagram 1023 and by the Give Way
marking to diagram 1003 (see figure 8-3).

8.13 In no circumstances may annular rings be

added around the central disc. If a more conspicuous
central marking is necessary, a larger disc, up to a
maximum of 4 m should be used. If the junction area
is very large, the diameter of the circulatory arrow
marking should be increased to a maximum of 10 m,
with the length of the arrows correspondingly
increased to 4.45 m. Conspicuity may be further
enhanced by replacing the normal central warning
line on the approach with a hatched marking to
diagram 1040.

54

ROUNDABOUTS

4450

3025

50
12 in
m
50
12 in
m

3500 min
7000 max

5000 min
10000 max

120

120

2500 min
4000 max

1000 min
2400 max
Diagram 1003.4 (alternative sizes)
Figure 8-2

600
(750)
(900)

Diagram
602

1.5 m

Diagram
611.1

Diagram
1003

Diagram
1023

Diagram
1023
(optional)

Diagram
1003.3
1.5 m
600 (750) (900)

Figure 8-3

55

ROUNDABOUTS

drivers joining it. They can also reduce the following

types of accidents on roundabouts:

DOUBLE ROUNDABOUTS
8.18 These junctions have two conventional or miniroundabouts either contiguous or connected by a
central link road or kerbed island (see figure 8-4).
Conventional and mini-roundabouts should not be
mixed at the same junction.

(i)

(ii) drivers being forced onto the central island,

and

8.19 Double roundabouts may offer an effective

means of dealing with turning movements at
asymmetrical junctions, those with a stagger, or
junctions with high opposing right turn flows.

(iii) collisions between entering and circulating

vehicles.
8.24 Markings should be designed to create flowing
paths around the junction for all movements,
avoiding sharp turns and providing a smooth
alignment between entry and exit markings. Lane
markings are always provided when the roundabout
is under signal control. The route through the
junction should be designed to avoid lane changing
on the immediate approach to a stop line.

SIGNALLED ROUNDABOUTS
8.20 These have traffic signals in use on one or more
of the approach arms for part or all of the day.
8.21 Where signals are used, traffic signal stop lines
should be laid on the main circulating carriageway,
approximately at right angles to the carriageway
edge. The approach road should be marked as
follows:
(i)

side-to-side collisions on the circulating

carriageway,

8.25 There are four basic configurations of road

markings which may be used on the circulatory
carriageway, making use of diagrams 1004 / 1004.1
and 1040.4. These are summarised below:

full time signals - Stop line to diagram

1001, or

(i)

concentric markings (see para 8.26),

(ii) partial concentric markings (see para 8.27),

(ii) part time signals - Stop line to diagram

1001 and Give Way line to diagram
1003.1. If the entry angle is such that the
Stop and Give Way lines are coincident, or
nearly so, the former may be omitted, but
only with the written approval of the
Secretary of State (see para 2.1).

(iii) concentric-spiral markings (see para 8.28),

and
(iv) spiral markings (see paras 8.29).
8.26 Concentric markings trace a complete path
around the circulatory carriageway encouraging
drivers to enter and circulate in two or more adjacent
lanes.

LANE MARKINGS IN THE CIRCULATING AREA

8.22 Road markings may be used to channelise
traffic and indicate which lane to use at and through
roundabouts. Further details may be found in Advice
Note TA 78 / 97 in the Design Manual for Roads and
Bridges, Volume 6, (see para 1.4).

8.27 Partial concentric markings differ from

concentric markings in that their continuity around
the circulatory carriageway is interrupted. They can
assist on wide circulatory carriageways by presenting
drivers with clearly defined lanes within which to pass
around the junction, and reduce the likelihood of
drivers in the off side entry lane being forced towards
the central island.

8.23 Lane markings can increase capacity by

improving both the use of road space on the
roundabout and the level of gap acceptance of

56

ROUNDABOUTS

Contiguous double roundabout

Double roundabout with short central link

Figure 8-4

57

ROUNDABOUTS

8.28 Concentric-spiral markings are similar to

concentric markings except that the outermost
circulating lane or lanes guide traffic to the next exit
by means of a lane drop. This is effected by running
the circulatory markings directly into the existing road
markings on that exit. They help to reduce conflicts
between vehicles at the exits where more than one
exit lane is provided, and can be used with any
number of circulating lanes.

when they have been used on the entries. They help

drivers to identify the correct lane as early as possible
and are particularly important if the lane is dedicated
to a specific exit. They should also be used on the
main carriageway of gyratory systems, i.e. large
roundabouts formed of a series of one-way roads.
Left turn arrows should not be used on the circulatory
area immediately in advance of a point where a slip
road enters from the left. This can confuse some
drivers into turning left prematurely and travelling the
wrong way along a dual carriageway. An ahead
arrow may be used at this point, followed by a left
turn arrow beyond the entering road.

8.29 Spiral markings are more appropriate on larger

roundabouts and involve a series of lane-gains and
lane-drops around the circulatory carriageway so that
drivers enter in the lane appropriate for their desired
exit and follow that lane around the roundabout to
be led off at the exit.

SEGREGATED LEFT TURN LANES

8.34 Segregated left turn lanes reduce conflict
between vehicles turning left at the first exit and
those already circulating (see figure 8-5). The
segregation may be effected by road markings to
diagram 1041.1 or 1042.1, or by a physical island, in
conjunction with the marking to diagram 1041
or 1042. Left turners are channelled into the left
hand lane using lane arrows and road markings,
supplemented by advance direction signs to diagram
2118 or its primary route equivalent (see Chapter 7,
paras 5.43 and 5.44). Left turning vehicles proceed
without having to give way to others circulating on
the roundabout. Segregation by road markings is
more common but may be less effective because it is
liable to abuse. Further guidance may be found in
TD51 / 03 in Volume 6 of the Design Manual for
Roads and Bridges (see para 1.4).

LANE DESTINATION MARKINGS AND ARROWS

8.30 Lane destination markings and arrows to
diagrams 1035 and 1038 (see paras 13.1 to 13.5),
may be justified where turning flows are consistently
heavy throughout the day. Careful judgement is
needed to ensure that such markings are not used
inappropriately, as the reduction in flexibility may
adversely affect the capacity of the roundabout.
8.31 Right turn arrows are best avoided on the
approach lanes to a roundabout, other than a miniroundabout, particularly as they can mislead overseas
drivers used to driving on the right. Where a right
hand lane is dedicated to a specific destination, this
should be associated with an ahead arrow until the
vehicle is in the circulatory carriageway.

8.35 If the left-turners are predominantly light

vehicles and there is a high proportion of cyclists or
heavy goods vehicles leaving the roundabout,
differential speeds in adjacent lanes could cause
problems, particularly if there is an uphill gradient.
This might be especially hazardous for cyclists.

8.32 Lane destinations and arrows may be used on

the approach to and in the circulating areas of
multiple lane signalled roundabouts, and those with
circulatory markings (see paras 8.22 to 8.29). This
may increase the capacity of a roundabout or make it
safer, but will be successful only if drivers are given
proper advance warning either by road markings or
upright signs. The latter of course must be consistent
with the markings.

8.36 The use of these lanes in urban areas where

pedestrians might cross should be considered
carefully. Pedestrians should never be expected to
cross left turn lanes segregated only by road
markings. If pedestrians are likely to be present, they
should be guided to a safer crossing point using

8.33 Lane arrows and destinations will usually be

repeated on roundabout circulatory carriageways

58

ROUNDABOUTS

guard rail or suitable planting. If this is not possible,

segregation should be effected by a physical island of
sufficient width to accommodate the peak number of
pedestrians.
8.37 Segregated left turn lanes may encourage
higher speeds; any desirable speed reduction
measures should be applied before entry to the lane
and not within it. Where the proportion of large
goods vehicles is high, it should be ensured that the
lane width is sufficient to accommodate the swept
paths of larger vehicles, especially where physical
segregation is provided. Where few such vehicles are
expected, the lane may be reduced to 3.5 m in width,
or exceptionally to an absolute minimum of 3.3 m.
Where road markings to diagram 1041.1 or 1042.1
are used to create the lane segregation, the overall
width of the marking should normally be at least 1 m.
Where reflecting road studs are used, these must be
red (see para 6.9).
8.38 When segregation is achieved using road
markings alone, no special allowance needs to be
made for broken-down vehicles, as other traffic will
not be prevented from passing. Where physical
segregation is introduced, the design should not
prevent vehicles from making a left turn at the
roundabout in the normal way by using the nonsegregated part of the approach.

Diagram
1042.1

YELLOW BOX MARKINGS

8.39 Direction 35 prohibits the use of yellow box
markings (see section 12) at unsignalled intersections
on roundabouts. This is because a circulating vehicle
has priority over those entering. If it stops to avoid
obstructing the box when its exit is blocked, thereby
releasing the flow of entering vehicles, there is likely
to be uncertainty over re-establishing right of way
when the exit is clear again. Moreover, a vehicle
stopped in an outer lane might obscure vehicles
lawfully continuing to circulate on the inner lanes
(whose exit might not be blocked) from the view of
drivers entering the roundabout. Yellow box
markings may however be used where traffic entering
the roundabout is controlled by signals at all times.

Figure 8-5

59

ROUNDABOUTS

Figure 8-6

60

ROUNDABOUTS

8.40 Although the Directions do not prohibit the use

of the KEEP CLEAR marking (diagram 1026) on
roundabouts, there are still the potential problems of
obscuration of sight lines and re-establishing
priorities. These risks should be assessed carefully
when considering whether the marking might help
resolve exit blocking problems.

YELLOW BAR MARKINGS

8.41 For details of the use of yellow bar markings on
the approach to a roundabout see section 11.

SPECIAL CASES
8.42 It is sometimes expedient to give traffic from
one arm of a roundabout priority over traffic already
circulating. This might be necessary if the layout is
unusual or there is a heavily dominant flow, but is
likely to be more appropriate on urban roads, where
speeds are lower, than in rural areas. As such a layout
operates contrary to the conventional Give Way rule,
it can be confusing and potentially dangerous. Traffic
signal control may be a better option.
8.43 Where signalling the roundabout is not
practicable, the layout in figure 8-6 may be used. The
mandatory Give Way lines and triangle marking
(diagrams 1003 and 1023) must be laid across the
circulating area of the roundabout at the point of
entry of the priority road. The Give Way markings
should be reinforced by the provision of two upright
GIVE WAY signs to diagram 602 as shown.
8.44 Give Way markings to diagram 1003 may also
be used at conventional roundabouts (although only
in conjunction with upright signs to diagram 602, see
direction 34(1)), where there might otherwise be
uncertainty about priorities, e.g. where drivers might
be confused by a green signal at a pedestrian
crossing immediately before the roundabout.

61

9 SIGNAL CONTROLLED JUNCTIONS

GENERAL

9.5 At difficult sites, Stop lines and near side primary

signals need to be located sufficiently far back from
the junction to enable long vehicles to turn into that
road without being blocked by vehicles waiting at the
Stop line. This will however reduce junction capacity
and it may be necessary to consider prohibiting the
turn.

9.1 Effective marking of the approaches to

signal controlled junctions is essential if the signals
are to operate at their maximum efficiency. To
achieve this:
(i)

the Stop line (diagram 1001) should be

sited as near as practicable to the
intersection, consistent with driver and
pedestrian needs. Drivers waiting at the
Stop line must have an uninterrupted view
of at least one signal,

9.6 Guidance on the use of advanced stop lines for

cyclists will be found in paras 16.20 to 16.22.

LONGITUDINAL MARKINGS
9.7 On the immediate approach to the signals, the
normal lane marking (diagram 1005 or 1005.1) and
the centre of carriageway marking (diagram 1008 or
1008.1) should change to the warning line versions
(diagram 1004 or 1004.1). Table 4-3 gives details of
the size and minimum number of marks
recommended.

(ii) lane lines should be arranged to secure

the maximum use of available carriageway
space consistent with adequate lane width,
and
(iii) where lanes are dedicated to a particular
turning movement, the appropriate lane
destination arrows should be provided at
the commencement of the lane, and
repeated as necessary (see also paras 9.9
and 13.1 to 13.3).

9.8 Lane markings may be laid within the junction

where some guidance to traffic would be helpful,
although care should be taken that the meaning is
clear to drivers on all approaches and there is no risk
of giving the impression of a Stop or Give Way line to
transverse movements. The arrow to diagram 1038.1
(see figure 13-4) may be used to indicate a route
through a junction, or used in pairs to indicate that
opposing right-turning traffic should pass near side
to near side (see figure 13-5). Further details can be
found in paras 13.7 and 13.8.

9.2 Figure 9-1 shows the standard layout of the

Stop lines, signals and pedestrian crossings at a signal
controlled junction having a different number of
lanes on each approach. It also shows a left turn lane
governed by priority markings instead of being under
direct signal control.
9.3 Figure 9-2 shows a typical arrangement of lane
and centre of carriageway markings at a signal
controlled junction where a six-lane road subject to a
40 mph speed limit meets a four-lane road subject to
a 30 mph speed limit.

LANE DESTINATION MARKINGS

9.9 It is essential that drivers are made aware in
good time of the correct lane to use at signalled
junctions. Where lanes are indicated for left or right
turn movements only, it is particularly important that
early notice is given by the use of the appropriate
lane arrow, repeated as necessary. If this is neglected,
drivers are likely to become trapped in the wrong
lane. A lane arrow should be used at the start of a
newly formed lane, and at heavily-trafficked junctions
the lane markings should be extended sufficiently far
upstream to cope with peak flows. The use of lane

STOP LINES
9.4 These are described in section 3. The Stop line
should be positioned a minimum of 1.5 m in advance
of the near side primary signal, although 2.5 m
should be used where practicable. The marking
should be positioned at right angles to the centre line
of the carriageway, even at skew junctions.

62

SIGNAL CONTROLLED JUNCTIONS

Diagram
1055.1

Diagram
1001

0.5 m

2400 min
10000 max

* 2.5 m

Diagram
1010

Diagram 602

NOTE
Indicates primary signals
Indicates secondary signals

* See para 9.4

Figure 9-1

63

SIGNAL CONTROLLED JUNCTIONS

Diagram 1004
(150 wide)
(min 7 marks)

Diagram
1005
(100 wide)

Diagram 1004
(100 wide)
(min 5 marks)

* 15 m

Diagram
1008
(150 wide)

* 30 m
subject to
30 mph
speed limit

* 20 m

Diagram 1004
(150 wide)
(min 10 marks)

Diagram 1004
(100 wide)
(min 7 marks)

* 40 m

NOTE

Diagram 1005
(100 wide)

Diagram 1008
(150 wide)
subject to
40 mph speed limit
Figure 9-2

64

Indicates primary signals

Indicates secondary signals

* See para 13.1 for minimum and

maximum spacing of lane arrows
(distances shown are typical values)

SIGNAL CONTROLLED JUNCTIONS

arrows and lane destination markings is described in

paras 13.1 to 13.5, and para 13.6 indicates where
traffic regulation orders are required.

PEDESTRIAN CROSSING POINTS

9.13 If a pedestrian crossing point is provided at a
signalled junction, whether itself signalled or not, the
Stop line should be placed a minimum of 1.5 m in
advance of the left hand side primary signal post,
which should be 0.5 m from the nearer row of studs
(diagram 1055.1). See also paras 6.15 and 9.4.
Although previous advice was to position the signal
head 1 m in advance of the crossing studs, this is
excessive where tactile paving is used. The tactile
surface is intended to lead people to the push button
box; a gap of 1 m between the edge of the tactile
surface and the box is too great to ensure this.

LANE WIDTHS
9.10 With new junctions, entry lane widths should
be between 3 and 3.65 m, unless there are specific
reasons to justify the use of narrower or wider lane
widths. Where an existing junction is being improved
or modified and available road space is restricted,
then the permitted lane widths for straight ahead
entry lanes may be reduced to 2.5 m provided that
the 85th percentile approach speed does not exceed
56 kph (35 mph) and the reduced width enables a
necessary extra lane to be provided. In exceptional
circumstances, lane widths may be reduced to 2.25 m
where it is not intended to make provision for large
goods vehicles.

9.14 The width of the crossing is dependent upon

site conditions, but is normally in the range 2.4
to 5 m. Exceptional numbers of pedestrians may
require the width to be increased to a maximum
of 10 m. Dropped kerbs and tactile paving should be
provided at all crossing points. Where pedestrian
refuges are provided, the full width of the crossing
should be maintained through the refuge as a
dropped kerb or flush with the carriageway.

9.11 In all cases the lane and centre line markings

(both varied to the warning module) should meet the
Stop line.
9.12 The number of lanes on the exit side of the
junction should match the number of ahead lanes at
the Stop line. If localised widening of an exit is
necessary to achieve this, the subsequent reduction in
the number of lanes should be carried out beyond
the junction over a distance of at least 100 m for a
single lane reduction. Deflection arrows to
diagram 1014 may be used to warn of the
impending loss. Normally, it should be the right hand
lane that is lost, so that slower vehicles are not
required to merge with faster-moving accelerating
traffic. In order to maintain capacity at signalled
junctions, it is important to keep the exits as well as
the approaches clear of parked vehicles.

UNSIGNALLED VEHICLE MOVEMENTS

9.15 Where a left turn slip road is provided outside
the control of the traffic signals, Give Way markings
to diagram 1003, the warning triangle to diagram
1023 and the upright sign to diagram 602 should be
used (see figure 9-1). If visibility is such that a Stop
line would be justified, the left turn should be
brought under signal control. A left turn slip lane
should be separated from the other lanes by a traffic
island. If no provision is made for pedestrians, they
are likely to have difficulty in crossing an unsignalled
slip road in an otherwise signalled junction.

65

10 GRADE SEPARATED JUNCTIONS

DESIGN

MERGING AND DIVERGING SLIP ROADS

10.1 Grade separated junctions may involve merging

and diverging lanes, or the gain or loss of lanes, or a
combination of these. As junctions become more
complex, so road marking layouts become more
complicated. It is not practicable to detail all
possibilities, but the standard principles should be
followed. Reference should be made to TD 22 / 92 in
Volume 6 of the Design Manual for Roads and
Bridges (see para 1.4) for further guidance. When
designing a complex layout, it should be borne in
mind that it must be capable of being signed and
marked in a way that drivers can readily understand.

10.2 The layout of markings and road studs at the

simplest grade separated junction is shown in
figure 10-1. The principal dimensions are detailed in
tables 10-1 and 10-2. This arrangement is suitable for
one or two-lane exit and one-lane entry slip roads.
10.3 The nosing of the slip road is marked using
diagram 1042 (varied where appropriate to reverse
the direction of the chevrons, see para 4.62). Red
studs are provided at 3 m centres along the outside of
both edges.

Table 10-1 Merge and lane-gain markings

Road type

Speed
limit
(mph)

Length of
entry taper
(m)

Nose
length
(m)

(1)

Taper for
minimum
angle
at nose
(2)

Width of
diag 1010
marking
(mm)

(3)

Length of
ghost
island tail
(m)
(4)

Rural motorway

70

205

1 in 40

115

180

200

Rural dual
carriageway

70
60 or less

150
130

1 in 30
1 in 25

85
75

150
150

200
150

Urban road

60
50 or less

95
75

1 in 15
1 in 12

50
40

n/a
n/a

150
150

NOTE: Numbers (1) to (4) at the head of the above columns relate to features shown on figures 10-1 to 10-6.

Table 10-2 Diverge and lane-drop markings

Road type

Speed
limit
(mph)

Length of exit taper

(m)
1 lane
(5) 2

2 lanes
(6) 1,2

Taper for
minimum
angle at nose

Nose
length
(m)

(7) 2

(8) 2

Width of
diag 1010
marking
(mm)

Rural motorway

70

170

185 (150)

1 in 15

80

200

Rural dual
carriageway

70
60

150
130

150 (120)
130 (110)

1 in 15
1 in 15

70
70

200
150

Urban road

60
50 or less

95
75

110 (90)
90 (75)

1 in 15
1 in 12

50
40

150
150

NOTES
1. Taper lengths refer to 2 x 3.65 m lanes, or, in brackets, 2 x 3.00m lanes.
2. Numbers (5) to (8) at the head of the above columns relate to features shown on figures 10-1 and 10-7.

66

GRADE SEPARATED JUNCTIONS

Diagram 1042
For length of nose
see table 10-1

Amber studs at
18 metre centres

Red studs at
3 metre centres
over length of nose

Diagram 1042
For length of nose
see table 10-2

18 metre
centres
18 metre
centres

Red studs
9 metre
centres

Red studs
9 metre
centres

Green studs at
8 metre centres
Diagram 1010
Diagram 1012.1,
1012.2 or 1012.3

Exit taper
(5) or (6)

Diagram 1039
For position
see figure 13-8

9 metre
centres

9 metre
centres

Red studs

Red studs

18 metre
centres

18 metre
centres

Diagram 1005.1
Diagram 1005.1

White studs at
18 metre centres

Diagram 1012.1,
1012.2 or 1012.3

Amber / red studs

at 18 metre centres

Figure 10-1

67

Entry
taper
(1)

GRADE SEPARATED JUNCTIONS

10.4 The edge line should be continued along the

slip road. Where raised rib markings are used, the rib
spacing should be reduced to 250 mm on motorway
slip roads. Red reflecting road studs should be used
on the near side and amber on the off side, both
at 18 m centres except as detailed in para 10.5.

Entry
taper
(1)

10.5 The main carriageway edge line should change

to diagram 1010, with green reflecting road studs
at 8 m centres, across the slip road over which traffic
joins or leaves. Along the same length, the spacing of
the red studs associated with the edge line to
diagram 1012.1, 1012.2 or 1012.3 at the near side
of the slip road is reduced from 18 m to 9 m. The
bifurcation arrow to diagram 1039 should be used as
shown in figure 13-8 at the lengths specified in
para 13.12.

Ghost
island
tail
(4)

10.6 Conventional lane lines to diagram 1005 or

1005.1 (see table 10-4) on the main carriageway
should be continued through the junction.
10.7 An entry layout for two-lane slip roads is shown
in figure 10-2, allowing each lane of the slip road to
join separately. The ghost island between the joining
lanes should be to diagram 1042, bordered by red
studs. This layout is suitable where the main line flow
is light, the main carriageway is three or more lanes
wide and the merging flow exceeds the capacity of a
single lane.

Diagram
1042
Entry taper
(1)
(Slip road
right hand
lane )

LANE GAINS
10.8 The principal dimensions for lane-gain layouts
are given in table 10-1. There are two basic
situations; the number of lanes gained will either be
the same as, or less than, the number of lanes on the
entry slip road.

Nose
(2) and (3)

10.9 Where the number of lanes gained equals the

number of lanes on the entry slip road, the markings
in figure 10-3 should be used. All lane markings to
diagram 1005.1 on both the main carriageway and
the slip road should change to 1004.1 as indicated
(or from 1005 to 1004 on roads where the speed
limit is not more than 40 mph; see table 10-4). If only
one lane is gained, the ghost island is not used.

Diagram 1004.1
(min 7 marks)

NOT TO SCALE

Figure 10-2

68

GRADE SEPARATED JUNCTIONS

Diagram 1004.1
ending at least
200 m beyond end
of ghost island

Diagram
1038

Diagram
1038

Diagram
1042

Nose
(2) and (3)

Ghost
island
tail
(4)

50 m

Nose
(2) and (3)

Taper
(see
table 10-3)

Diagram
1040.3

Diagram
1042
For location of
diagram 1014
arrows see
para 4.53 and
figure 4-13

NOT
TO SCALE

Diagram 1004.1 commencing

at least 200 m before tip of nose

NOT TO SCALE

Figure 10-3

Figure 10-4

69

GRADE SEPARATED JUNCTIONS

Diagram 1004.1
ending at least
50 m after end
of ghost island

Diagram 1004.1
ending at least
50 m after end
of entry taper

Diagram 1038

Entry
taper
(1)

Ghost
island
tail
(4)

Diagram
1042

Ghost
island
tail
(4)

Entry taper
(1)
(Slip road
right hand
lane )

Diagram
1038

Nose
(2) and (3)

Diagram
1042

Nose
(2) and (3)

Diagram 1004.1
commencing at
first warning sign
on slip road

Diagram 1004.1
commencing at
first warning sign
on slip road

Diagram 1004.1
commencing
at least 200 m
before tip of nose

Diagram 1004.1
commencing
at least 200 m
before tip of nose

NOT TO SCALE

NOT TO SCALE
Figure 10-5

Figure 10-6

70

GRADE SEPARATED JUNCTIONS

should be 30 m before the start of the taper

and preceding arrows at intervals of 30 m
in advance of that. The markings should be
supplemented by signs to diagram 872.1,

10.10 Where the number of lanes gained is less than

the number of lanes on the entry slip road, there are
three methods of carrying out the merge:
(i)

the two-lane slip road is reduced to one

lane in advance of the back of the nose, so
that the number of lanes on the entry slip
road equals the number of lanes gained.
The lane reduction should be effected by
the use of hatched markings to diagram
1040.3 (see para 4.53 and figure 10-4).
The taper length should be determined
from table 10-3 and the full reduction in
width achieved 50 m in advance of the
back of the nose. The hatching should then
be extended to the end of the slip road to
form part of the nose. Additionally, at least
two deflection arrows to diagram 1014
should be placed in the lane which is to be
discontinued. The tip of the final arrow

(ii) the right hand slip lane merges with the

through carriageway before the left hand
slip lane is added (figure 10-5). All lane
markings to diagrams 1005 or 1005.1
should change to 1004 or 1004.1
respectively (see table 10-4), commencing
at the first sign to diagram 874 on the slip
road and at least 200 m prior to the merge
nose tip on the main carriageway. These
markings should be continued for at
least 50 m beyond the termination of the
ghost island. Road markings to diagram
1010 should extend from the tip of the
merge nose to the point where it meets the
ghost island. Ahead arrows to diagram
1038 should be placed on the joining
(additional) lane and on the original left
lane of the main carriageway at the point
they come together, to discourage
premature lane changing,

Table 10-3 Taper for slip road lane reduction

85 percentile
speed
(mph)

Preferred
minimum
taper

Absolute
minimum
taper

30
40
50
60
70

1 in 40
1 in 40
1 in 45
1 in 50
1 in 55

1 in 20
1 in 30
1 in 40
1 in 50
1 in 55

(iii) the left hand slip lane merges with the

additional main carriageway lane after the
right hand slip lane has been added to the
through carriageway (figure 10-6). In this
option it is not easy for slower slip road
traffic to merge into the faster lanes; it is
also difficult to sign. Reference should be
made to the appropriate overseeing
authority before it is used.

NOTE: The preferred minimum taper should be used

wherever practicable; the absolute minimum should
be used only where unavoidable.

Table 10-4 Size of markings in figures 10-1 to 10-7

Diagram number

Size of marking (Length x Gap x Width)

Speed limit (mph)

Speed limit (mph)

40 or less 50 to 70

40 or less

50

60

70

1004

1004.1

4 m x 2 m x 100 mm

6 m x 3 m x 150 mm

6 m x 3 m x 150 mm

6 m x 3 m x 150 mm

1005

1005.1

1 m x 5 m x 100 mm

2 m x 7 m x 150 mm

2 m x 7 m x 150 mm

2 m x 7 m x 150 mm

1010

1010

1 m x 1 m x 100 mm

1 m x 1 m x 150 mm

1 m x 1 m x 150 mm

1 m x 1 m x 200 mm

71

GRADE SEPARATED JUNCTIONS

LANE DROPS

Diagram
1005.1

10.11 A standard lane-drop layout for high speed

roads is shown in figure 10-7. The lane markings
dividing the through lanes from the lane or lanes to
be dropped should change to diagram 1004.1 (see
table 10-4 for width) at the one mile advance
direction sign. From the half-mile advance direction
sign to the diverge nose tip, the marking changes
again to diagram 1010. Road studs used in
conjunction with the diagram 1010 marking must be
green. The studs will be spaced 18 metres apart from
the half-mile sign to the final advance direction sign,
then closed up to 8 metre centres to the tip of the
diverge nose. On lower-speed roads, or where the
advance direction signs are sited at two thirds and
one third of a mile from the junction, the lane-drop
markings will commence later and the stud spacings
adjusted to suit. The appropriate widths and modules
for these markings are detailed in table 10-4.

Diagram
1005.1

Diagram
1042

Nose
(7)
and (8)

10.12 The principal dimensions for lane-drop layouts

are given in table 10-2. The table indicates the length
of the exit taper depending upon the number of extra
lanes provided on the slip road. In the case of the
lane drop shown in figure 10-7, two lanes on the slip
road represents an increase of one over the approach
lane and therefore the taper length shown in the
table should be as indicated under the heading (5).

Exit
taper
(5)

AUXILIARY LANES
10.13 Auxiliary lanes are additional lanes at the side
of the main carriageway between the nose and the
entry or exit taper at a junction. They are used at
merge and diverge junctions and also at lane gain
and lane drop junctions, and increase capacity by
providing increased merge or diverge opportunity
and additional space for weaving. They are separated
from the main carriageway by the marking to
diagram 1010. Further details may be found in
TD 22 / 92 in Volume 6 of the Design Manual for
Roads and Bridges (see para 1.4).

Diagram 1010
commencing at
mile sign
(Diagram 1004.1
between 1 mile
and mile sign)

NOT TO SCALE
Figure 10-7

72

11 YELLOW BAR MARKINGS

11.1 Yellow bar markings are used in certain
conditions on high speed approaches to
roundabouts, either on the main carriageway or on
an exit slip road. They have been shown to be
effective in reducing accidents associated with speed
adaptation, i.e. where drivers have been travelling at
sustained high speed for long periods. The types of
accidents most likely to be influenced are single
vehicle and overrun accidents. The markings should
not be used in an attempt to reduce speeds at sharp
bends or other hazards. They are not normally
appropriate on slip roads if there is a segregated left
turn lane for the roundabout, or at roundabouts
controlled by traffic signals. On approaching a green
signal, some drivers will slow down in response to the
markings, others will maintain speed in an attempt to
beat a change to red. Markings are unlikely to be
approved in such cases unless the accident
justification is strong.

radius less than the desirable minimum for

a 120 kph design speed shown in table 3 of
TD 9 / 93 in Volume 6 of the Design Manual
for Roads and Bridges (see para 1.4),
(iii) the road is subject to the national speed
limit of 70 mph, and
(iv) the accident record for the roundabout
includes at least three accidents involving
personal injury during the preceding three
years, in which speed on the relevant
approach was a contributory factor.
11.4 Each approach to a given roundabout is treated
as a separate site and the use of the markings on
each approach must be justified independently. The
application of the criteria in para 11.3 will ensure
that the markings are used only at sites where they
are likely to make a positive contribution to safety.

11.2 Before use of the markings is contemplated, it is

essential to ensure that all standard signing has been
correctly installed. The warning signs described in
Chapter 4 (paras 2.13 to 2.18) should be provided
and be of the appropriate sizes. All signs should be
checked to ensure they are in good condition and
not obscured e.g. by vegetation, and sited at the
correct distances from the junction. Only then should
treatment with yellow bar markings be considered.

11.5 The marking consists of 90 yellow transverse

bars on main carriageways, and 45 on slip roads. The
bars are 600 mm wide, and are laid at right angles to
the centre line of the carriageway (see figure 11-1 for
details of the layout on a main carriageway). The first
bar is laid at a distance of 50 m measured along the
centre line of the carriageway in advance of the Give
Way line. Successive bars are spaced in accordance
with the running measurements in table 11-1 for
main carriageways and in table 11-2 for slip roads.

11.3 The markings are not prescribed in the Traffic

Signs Regulations and General Directions 2002.
However, for installations in Northern Ireland, where
they are prescribed for use at roundabouts on dual
carriageway roads only, reference should be made to
Appendix A. Elsewhere, written authorisation from
the Secretary of State will need to be obtained for
each site where it is proposed to use them (see
para 2.1). Authorisation will normally be given only
where the following criteria are met:
(i)

11.6 To assist surface water drainage, each end of

each bar should be terminated about 150 mm from
the edge of the carriageway or the edge line marking
if provided. This may be increased to 750 mm where
there is a particular drainage problem, or if there are
significant numbers of cyclists. Bars should not be
extended across hard strips or hard shoulders as this
would give the impression that these are traffic lanes.
11.7 Skid resistance of the bars should not be less
than 55. Drop-on glass beads should not be applied.
The bars should not exceed 5 mm in thickness, and
the combined thickness of the bars and any
superimposed marking must not exceed 6 mm.
Although thinner markings might need more
frequent renewal, they are less likely to result in noise
levels which are unacceptable to local residents.

the carriageway on which they are to be

laid is a one-way approach to a
roundabout (i.e. a dual carriageway or an
exit slip road),

(ii) there is at least 3 km of dual carriageway in

advance of the site, with no major
intersections or bends with a horizontal

73

YELLOW BAR MARKINGS

Edge of running
carriageway

D1
600 mm
50 m
600 mm

D2
D1
D2
D3
D4
D5
D6
D7

150 mm

150 mm

D90

NOT TO SCALE

NOTE: The 150 mm gap between the edge of the running carriageway and the bar edges can
be increased on the left hand side to a maximum of 750 mm at sites where there are particular
problems with surface water drainage or where there is a significant number of cyclists.

Figure 11-1

74

YELLOW BAR MARKINGS

Table 11-1 Spacing of bars on main carriageway

Bar
No.

Distance
from D1
(m)

Bar
No.

Distance
from D1
(m)

Bar
No.

Distance
from D1
(m)

Bar
No.

Distance
from D1
(m)

Bar
No.

Distance
from D1
(m)

D1
D2
D3
D4
D5

0.00
2.75
5.50
8.25
11.05

D21
D22
D23
D24
D25

60.10
63.45
66.80
70.15
73.60

D41
D42
D43
D44
D45

133.75
137.85
142.00
146.15
150.40

D61
D62
D63
D64
D65

224.70
229.80
234.90
240.10
245.40

D81
D82
D83
D84
D85

338.15
344.65
351.35
358.30
365.50

D6
D7
D8
D9
D10

13.90
16.80
19.70
22.60
25.55

D26
D27
D28
D29
D30

77.05
80.55
84.10
87.65
91.30

D46
D47
D48
D49
D50

154.65
158.95
163.35
167.75
172.25

D66
D67
D68
D69
D70

250.70
256.10
261.50
267.00
272.60

D86
D87
D88
D89
D90

373.20
380.90
388.60
396.25
403.95

D11
D12
D13
D14
D15

28.55
31.60
34.65
37.70
40.80

D31
D32
D33
D34
D35

94.95
98.65
102.40
106.15
110.00

D51
D52
D53
D54
D55

176.75
181.30
185.95
190.60
195.35

D71
D72
D73
D74
D75

278.20
283.90
289.60
295.45
301.30

D16
D17
D18
D19
D20

43.95
47.15
50.35
53.55
56.80

D36
D37
D38
D39
D40

113.85
117.75
121.70
125.65
129.70

D56
D57
D58
D59
D60

200.10
204.90
209.80
214.70
219.70

D76
D77
D78
D79
D80

307.25
313.30
319.35
325.55
331.75

Table 11-2 Spacing of bars on slip roads

Bar
No.

Distance
from D1
(m)

Bar
No.

Distance
from D1
(m)

Bar
No.

Distance
from D1
(m)

Bar
No.

Distance
from D1
(m)

Bar
No.

Distance
from D1
(m)

D1
D2
D3
D4
D5

0.00
2.75
5.55
8.45
11.35

D11
D12
D13
D14
D15

30.20
33.55
37.00
40.50
44.05

D21
D22
D23
D24
D25

67.20
71.35
75.60
79.90
84.30

D31
D32
D33
D34
D35

112.90
118.00
123.30
128.70
134.20

D41
D42
D43
D44
D45

170.00
176.70
183.90
191.60
199.30

D6
D7
D8
D9
D10

14.35
17.40
20.50
23.70
26.90

D16
D17
D18
D19
D20

47.70
51.45
55.30
59.20
63.15

D26
D27
D28
D29
D30

88.80
93.45
98.20
103.00
107.90

D36
D37
D38
D39
D40

139.80
145.50
151.35
157.40
163.60

75

12 YELLOW BOX JUNCTION MARKINGS

LEGAL ASPECTS

SUITABILITY

12.1 Part II of Schedule 19 to the Regulations

defines two purposes for the yellow box marking to
diagram 1043 or 1044 (see figure 12-1):

12.5 Experience has shown that the marking

improves traffic flows where previously there were
delays due to vehicles blocking the junction and
impeding the cross flow. At signal controlled
junctions, the queues of traffic left at the end of a
green phase have been significantly reduced and
there have been marked reductions in injury
accidents, especially those involving pedestrians.

(i)

to mark an area of carriageway conveying

the prohibition that no person shall cause a
vehicle to enter the box junction so that it
has to stop within it due to the presence of
stationary vehicles. A vehicle waiting to
turn right (other than at a roundabout) may
stop within the box junction for so long as
it is prevented from completing the right
turn by oncoming vehicles or other vehicles
which are stationary whilst waiting to
complete a right turn.

12.6 Box markings are no substitute for traffic

signals. They can however help to improve traffic
flow at junctions where blocking back causes
obstruction. Their use at pinch points controlled by
priority signs and at level crossings (diagram 1045) is
dealt with in paras 12.13 and 12.14 respectively.

(ii) when placed in conjunction with diagrams

615 and 811 on an area of carriageway
which is less than 4.5 m wide at its
narrowest point, the road marking shall
convey the prohibition that no person shall
cause a vehicle to enter the box junction so
that the vehicle has to stop within it due to
the presence of oncoming vehicles or other
stationary vehicles beyond the box.

12.7 Not all junctions are suitable for the installation

of box markings, and certain criteria should be
applied before deciding whether a particular site
should be marked. A traffic survey should be carried
out to determine the extent of the problem, not only
to assess the suitability of the junction for box
marking but also to establish whether any alternative
measures might be effective (e.g. re-timing or linking
of traffic signals at adjacent junctions). A survey will
also reveal what further measures might be needed,
e.g. imposition of waiting and loading restrictions or
re-location of bus stops.

12.2 Drivers entering the box when their exit is

obstructed by stationary vehicles, whether in the road
ahead or to either side, commit an offence. It is
permissible, however, to enter and become stationary
if turning right and prevented from leaving the
junction only by oncoming traffic, or by other
vehicles waiting to complete the right turn.

12.8 Factors which influence a decision to provide

box markings include the following:
(i)

12.3 The Directions do not permit the use of yellow

box markings at roundabouts unless traffic entering
the box is controlled by signals at all times (see
para 8.39 and direction 35). Nor should they be
used where traffic streams merge, as it will not be
clear which stream has precedence when a gap
appears.

the junction should preferably, though not

necessarily, be controlled by signals (see
also para 12.3),

(ii) blocking back from a junction ahead

should occur under existing conditions,
even if only for short periods,
(iii) there should preferably be heavy traffic
flows on both opposing arms of the
junction. At unsignalled junctions with
minor roads where blocking of the mouth
of the minor road is infrequent, a KEEP
CLEAR marking (see paras 22.11 to 22.14)
may be more appropriate,

12.4 Traffic regulation orders are not needed in

order to install yellow box markings, although the
police should always be consulted. The marking is
subject to section 36 of the Road Traffic Act 1988
(see para 2.4 and regulation 10).

76

YELLOW BOX JUNCTION MARKINGS

2
(2 000
50
0)

kerb
line

200

150

3000 min
40000 max

60 min
120 max
10% max of breadth
10%

max
of
length

10%

max
of
length

3000 min
30000 max
Diagram 1043

kerb
line

2
(2 000
50
0)

10% max of
breadth

200

150

2000 min
10000 max

60 min
120 max

3000 min
30000 max

Diagram 1044
Figure 12-1

77

YELLOW BOX JUNCTION MARKINGS

(iv) opposing roads at a junction should

normally be in line with each other.
The markings may, however, be used
exceptionally at staggered junctions,
particularly where the minor roads have a
right hand stagger, provided the maximum
box length is not exceeded, and irregular
shapes can be avoided. Two half-boxes
may be a practical substitute for a single
large box in such circumstances,

SETTING OUT
12.11 The marking consists of yellow lines forming a
box enclosing cross-hatched diagonal lines (see
figure 12-1). The diagonal lines are 150 mm wide and
spaced 2 m apart where the shortest boundary of the
box is less than 9 m long, or 2.5 m apart where the
shortest boundary line of the box is 9 m or more.
Yellow box markings must always have four straight
sides, each being approximately transverse to the
traffic flow on the approach. Up to 10% of the
length of the side at any corner may be cut away as
shown in the diagram to accommodate corner kerbs.
The overall shape of the marking and the number of
cross-hatched lines will vary to accord with the
circumstances at the site.

(v) the carriageway beyond the junction

should be free from obstruction (this
may necessitate the imposition of
waiting or loading restrictions, or the
adjustment of bus stops on the lengths
concerned),

12.12 To set out the marking:

(vi) where a succession of junctions gives rise
to blocking back, the establishment of a
series of boxes should be considered,
provided at least 20 m storage space can be
maintained between successive boxes, and

(i)

mark transverse lines across each arm of

the junction approximately at right angles
to the flow of traffic (see figure 12-2),

(ii) where the corners of the box have been

cut away, complete the full box with
construction lines; where the sides are still
unequal in length, extend the short sides to
X and Q using construction lines so that
PX = PY = YQ,

(vii) there should preferably not be a high

proportion of right-turning traffic,
since experience has shown that the
effectiveness of the marking is reduced
under these conditions.
12.9 Yellow box markings may be used outside
police, fire, ambulance stations or hospitals only
where there is an access road forming a junction
with the main road. Where vehicles exit directly
onto the carriageway, a KEEP CLEAR marking to
diagram 1026 or a KEEP CLEAR marking to diagram
1027.1 (varied to omit the word SCHOOL) should
be used.

(iii) draw a main diagonal X-Y running from

corner to corner of the notional box (either
pair of opposite corners may be used),

12.10 Half-boxes, in which only half the area of the

junction is marked (diagram 1044) are appropriate at
T junctions and other junctions where the traffic
blocks back from one direction only. Half-boxes may
be used only in the position shown in the lower
drawing in figure 12-1, i.e. on the minor road side
of the main carriageway.

(v) set out the intermediate lines parallel to

the diagonals, at grid intervals of 2 m
or 2.5 m as appropriate (see para 12.11).

(iv) construct a diagonal line P-Q intersecting

the first diagonal at right angles; it will not
necessarily connect both corners of the
yellow box,

Half-box markings should be designed in the same

way as full box markings but with only half the box
marked on the road (see lower drawing in
figure 12-1).

78

YELLOW BOX JUNCTION MARKINGS

12.14 A different pattern of yellow box marking

(diagram 1045) is used at Automatic Half Barrier
level crossings (see paras 19.18 and 19.19). This may
be appropriate at other forms of railway crossing if
these are likely to become blocked by queuing traffic,
but only with the agreement of the Railway
Inspectorate. Further guidance on the use of box
markings at level crossings can be found in paras
19.18 and 19.19, and at tramway crossings in paras
18.15 and 18.23.

SPECIAL CASES
12.13 Box markings are sometimes effective in
combination with priority signs (diagrams 615 / 615.1
and 811 / 811.1) to break queues through an
exceptionally narrow pinch point and enable an
opposing flow to continue without unnecessary
delay. The marking may be used for this purpose only
if the carriageway width is less than 4.5 m at the
narrowest point (regulation 29(2) and Part II of
Schedule 19).

90

Q
X

Q
Figure 12-2

79

13 ARROWS AND LANE DESTINATIONS

850

300

(4000) 6000 (9000)

750

13.1 Direction arrows to diagram 1038 (see

figure 13-1) should be used on the approach to busy
multi-lane junctions to give drivers advance
indication of the correct lane. The use of lane arrows
at roundabouts is dealt with in paras 8.30 to 8.33,
and at signal controlled junctions in para 9.9.
Normally two arrows should be used in sequence in
each lane, although sometimes three may be needed.
Table 13-1 gives recommended arrow sizes and
siting. Arrows or destination markings (see paras 13.4
to 13.6) should normally be located at least as far
back from the junction as the longest peak hour
traffic queue, but not in advance of a previous main
junction as this might result in confusion. It can be
helpful to locate arrows in conjunction with the
advance direction signs.

500

LANE ARROWS

13.2 The direction of each arrow head may be varied

to suit the circumstances, but not more than two
directions may be shown on any one arrow. The
principal dimensions are indicated in figure 13-1;
full details can be found on the working drawings
(see para 1.17).

Diagram 1038
Figure 13-1

and left turn arrows should be combined in the near

side lane. Similarly where there is a left filter arrow at
a traffic signal installation, the filter lane should
always be marked with the left arrow marking only,
in order to exclude non-filtering traffic. Similar
principles should be adopted where there are more
than two lanes on an approach.

13.3 On two-lane approaches to junctions, the

arrangement of arrows indicating the lanes for
straight ahead, left turn and right turn will depend
upon the relative traffic volumes making the
movements, and on the site conditions. Where there
is a heavy right turn movement, the straight ahead

Table 13-1 Location of lane arrows

Speed
limit
(mph)

Arrow
length
(m)

40 or less
50 or 60

70

Distance of first arrow

from Stop / Give Way
(m)

Distance of second
arrow from first
(m)

Distance of third
arrow from second
(m)

15 to 25

30 to 50

30 to 50

Up to 1.5 times the above distances

NOTE: The greater distances shown for the arrows should be used on roads subject to higher traffic speeds.

80

ARROWS AND LANE DESTINATIONS

LANE DESTINATIONS

vehicles. Although abbreviations may be used, these

must be understandable not only to local drivers, but
also to those unfamiliar with the area. Abbreviations
on the signs must be recognisable as the same
destinations as those on the road, where fewer letters
might need to be used.

Edge of carriageway

750

13.5 Two sizes are prescribed for the legend,

1600 mm and 2800 mm. The smaller size is intended
to be used when the speed limit is 40 mph or less,
and the larger when it is more than 40 mph.

500

750

13.4 Worded lane destinations (diagram 1035, see

figure 13-2) reinforcing the information shown on
the advance direction signs may be marked on the
carriageway on the approach to junctions. These will
normally be used with lane destination arrows,
although the latter may be omitted. In confirming
which lane to use, the markings provide drivers with
an alternative indication to the advance direction
sign in the event of it being obscured by high

4000
(6000)

300

1000
(1750)
1600
(2800)
1000
(1750)
1600
(2800)
1800
(3150)
1600
(2800)
1000
(1750)
1600
(2800)

Diagram 1035
Figure 13-2

81

ARROWS AND LANE DESTINATIONS

MANDATORY TURNS

indicate a route through a junction, or used in pairs

to indicate that opposing right-turning traffic should
pass near side to near side (see para 13.8). When
used in pairs, a gap of at least one metre should be
left between each arrow. Two lengths are prescribed
for the arrow, 3025 mm or 4450 mm; normally the
larger size will be appropriate, but at very restricted
sites it may be necessary to use the smaller arrow.
These arrows are identical to those that form part of
the mini-roundabout marking to diagram 1003.4 (see
figure 8-2) and shown on working drawing P1003.4
(see para 1.17).

13.6 Lane arrows supplemented with the legend

TURN LEFT (see figure 13-3), TURN RIGHT and
AHEAD ONLY are prescribed as diagrams 1036.1,
1036.2 and 1037.1 respectively. These versions may
be used only where they indicate the effect of a
statutory prohibition (direction 7). The markings are
used to reinforce a green arrow traffic signal or a
regulatory turn sign, e.g. entry into a one-way road
where all traffic is required to turn in the same
direction. The legend may be laid in a single line
across two lanes or in two rows, as shown in
figure 13-3.

13.8 Figure 13-5 shows the use of a pair of arrows to

diagram 1038.1 at a signal controlled junction.
Where a signal phase permits opposing right turns
but no ahead movements from the right turn lanes,
and there are no opposing dedicated lanes, use of
the arrows to indicate that vehicles should pass near
side to near side will help prevent conflict. If the
number of right-turning vehicles is high, it would be
of benefit to provide a dedicated right turn lane even
if a separate signal stage is not provided.

GUIDANCE ARROWS

750

13.7 Lane markings may be laid in the junction

where some guidance to traffic is considered to be
helpful, although care should be taken that the
meaning is clear to drivers on all approaches. Arrows
to diagram 1038.1 (figure 13-4) may be used to

4000
(6000)

300

4000
(6000)

1000
(1750)

1000
(1750)

1600
(2800)

1600
(2800)
1000
(1750)
1600
(2800)

Diagram 1036.1
Figure 13-3

82

30
25

44
50

ARROWS AND LANE DESTINATIONS

Diagram 1038.1 (alternative sizes)

Figure 13-4

1 metre
min

Diagram
1038.1

Figure 13-5

83

ARROWS AND LANE DESTINATIONS

DEFLECTION ARROWS

(525) 700 (1050)

13.9 Deflection arrows to diagram 1014 (see
figure 13-6) are used in advance of:
(i)

double white line markings to diagrams

1013.1 and 1013.3, to warn of the
approaching restriction and to direct traffic
to the correct side (see paras 5.13 to 5.16),

(1500)
2000
(3000)

(ii) markings to diagrams 1040, 1040.3 and

1040.4, to warn of a hazard or change of
direction and to indicate the side on which
traffic should pass (see paras 4.50
and 4.53),

(4500)
6000
(9000)

(iii) cycle or bus lane boundary markings to

diagram 1049, to indicate the side on
which other vehicles should pass them (see
paras 16.6 and 17.7 respectively), and

(150) 200 (300)

(iv) arch bridges, in conjunction with the edge
of carriageway marking to diagram 1010
and the marking to diagram 1024.1 (HIGH
VEHS), to indicate the most suitable path
for high vehicles (see paras 22.5 to 22.10).

Diagram 1014
Figure 13-6

that the lateral distance between the tips of the arrow

heads is 2100 mm for all three sizes of marking. For
detailed dimensions, reference should be made to
the working drawings (see para 1.17). The ahead
arrow should be laid in the centre of the ahead lane;
the turning arrow will then just encroach into the
deceleration lane.

The arrow may be reversed so that it points to the

right in appropriate circumstances.

BIFURCATION ARROWS
13.10 These markings to diagram 1039 (see
figure 13-7) should be provided at the
commencement of deceleration lanes on the
approach to junctions.

13.13 The arrow marking may be reversed to suit

right turn movements into deceleration lanes in the
central reservation of dual carriageways and
dedicated right turn lanes on other roads. The arrow
to diagram 1038 indicating a right turn (or ahead
and right) must not be used in a through lane if it is
not the lane from which traffic turns right.

13.11 Bifurcation arrows serve to guide vehicles into

the deceleration lane at its commencement, ensuring
that the full length of the lane is used to slow down
for the junction without impeding through vehicles
on the main carriageway.

13.14 Figure 13-8 indicates the location of the 32 m

long arrow in relation to other markings. This may be
used as a guide for other sizes of arrows; the aim
should be to site the arrow shortly after the
commencement of the deceleration lane, at a point
where it has developed adequate width.

13.12 Three sizes are prescribed. The longest (32 m)

is for use on motorways or high speed all-purpose
dual carriageway roads, the medium (16 m) for use on
other roads with a speed limit greater than 40 mph,
and the shortest (8 m) elsewhere. It should be noted

84

ARROWS AND LANE DESTINATIONS

2100
200

2100
200

8000

16000

2100
200
32000

Diagram 1039
Figure 13-7

18.5 m

5.5 m
0.5 m

0.5 m

=
=

32 m

Green uni-directional reflecting road stud. Red, white and amber / red studs omitted for clarity.
Figure 13-8

85

14 TRAFFIC ISLANDS
GENERAL

SUCCESSION OF ISLANDS

14.1 The simplest means of marking approaches to

traffic islands is to use inclined warning lines to
diagram 1004 / 1004.1 as described in para 4.23.
Where greater emphasis is required, hatched
markings to diagram 1040 may be used (see
paras 4.49 to 4.51). Details of the recommended
minimum tapers are given in table 14-1 and
guidance on the size of the markings in para 4.49.

14.5 On four-lane single carriageway roads,

pedestrian refuge islands may be provided to
discourage excessive vehicle speeds and help
pedestrians to cross.
14.6 The marking to diagram 1040.2 (see
figure 14-1) may be provided as a more emphatic
alternative to the use of the inclined warning
markings described in para 4.23. The hatched
marking discourages overtaking manoeuvres on
the approach to each refuge.

14.2 It is important that the inclined warning line or

the boundary line of a hatched marking guides traffic
safely past the obstruction. Recommended clearances
between the back of the line and the edge of a
refuge are set out in para 4.23. The use of bidirectional road studs with diagram 1040 (or 1040.2)
is not recommended, for the reasons explained in
para 6.5.

14.7 Where access is required across the centre of

the road to minor roads, the hatching may be
omitted over a short length and replaced by a
warning line to diagram 1004 / 1004.1 along the
edge nearer the minor road. This will provide a
narrow right turn lane. A right turn arrow to diagram
1038 may be used in this lane, but a bifurcation
arrow (diagram 1039) at the entry point should not
be used unless the turning lane is at least 2.5 m wide
(see para 7.10). Marking in accordance with this
paragraph helps to highlight the junction and give
some protection to right-turning vehicles. If right
turns into the minor road are prohibited, this can be
emphasised by retaining the hatching even though
vehicles may turn right out of the minor road. If the
junction is with a major road and the right turn
movements cannot be prohibited then a standard
design of right turn lane will be necessary, possibly
involving the dedication of the outside lane to right
turners (see paras 7.2 to 7.12).

14.3 Where traffic may pass on either side of an

island, e.g. at a pedestrian refuge in a one-way street,
a chevron marking to diagram 1041 is used (see also
para 4.60).
14.4 A driver's view of an island may be obscured by
other vehicles; the use of a white beacon will make
its presence more conspicuous from a distance (see
Chapter 4, section 23).
Table 14-1 Tapers on the approach to refuges
85 percentile
speed
(mph)

Preferred
minimum
taper

Absolute
minimum
taper

Up to 30
31 to 40
41 to 50
51 to 60

1 in 40
1 in 40
1 in 45
1 in 50

1 in 20
1 in 30
1 in 40
1 in 50

14.8 On narrower roads, the arrangement shown in

figure 14-2 might be appropriate. However, the
needs of cyclists must be considered; it can be
intimidating if large vehicles have to pass very close
in order to overtake. In addition, this layout will make
passing slow vehicles difficult, and may cause
problems if a vehicle breaks down. Waiting
prohibitions may be needed adjacent to islands to
prevent obstruction. Bus stops need to be carefully
sited in relation to the island positions so as not to
cause undue delays to other vehicles.

NOTES
1. The preferred minimum taper should be used
wherever practicable; the absolute minimum should
be used only where unavoidable.
2. See para 4.23 for details of minimum lateral
clearance to refuge.

86

TRAFFIC ISLANDS

Diagram
1039

Diagram
1004 / 1004.1

Diagram
1040.2
Diagram
1040.2

Diagram
1005 / 1005.1

For details of
minimum lateral
clearance, see
para 4.23

Figure 14-1

Figure 14-2

87

15 PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS
GENERAL

laid across the full width of the carriageway. Road

studs at Zebra crossings (see paras 15.27 and 15.28)
are optional. Where used, they are placed not more
than 155 mm from each end of the stripes. A post for
mounting the yellow globe indicating the crossing
must be placed at each end, normally on the side
closest to approaching traffic.

15.1 Markings for Zebra, Pelican and Puffin crossings

are prescribed in the Zebra, Pelican and Puffin
Pedestrian Crossings Regulations and General
Directions 1997 (the Pedestrian Crossings
Regulations). Toucan and equestrian crossings are
marked using diagrams 1001.3, 1055.1 and 1055.2
prescribed in the Traffic Signs Regulations and
General Directions 2002. More detailed guidance on
the provision of pedestrian crossings can be found in
Local Transport Notes 1 / 95 (ISBN 0-11-551625-5)
and 2 / 95 (ISBN 0-11-551626-3).

15.6 The stripes immediately adjacent to the edge of

the carriageway must be black and be not more than
1.3 m wide. All other stripes, both black and white,
must be of equal width and not less than 500 mm
nor more than 715 mm wide. The Pedestrian
Crossings Regulations permit the minimum to be
reduced to 380 mm and the maximum increased to
840 mm where an authority considers it necessary
having regard to the road layout, e.g. stripes might
be narrowed to increase the number on a narrow
carriageway, or widened to reduce the number on a
wide carriageway.

15.2 The width of a pedestrian crossing is

determined by the pedestrian flow. An extra 0.5 m
should be added to the minimum width of 2.4 m for
each 125 pedestrians per hour above 600, averaged
over the four peak hours, up to the statutory
maximum width of 10 m.
15.3 Crossings should normally be positioned at
right angles to the carriageway edge. Where this is
impracticable, the Give Way or Stop line should as far
as possible be at a right angle to the kerb, even if it is
then not parallel to the edge of the crossing. This
ensures that drivers do not violate the overtaking
prohibition when stopping at the line alongside
other vehicles.

15.7 The white stripes may be illuminated with

retroreflecting material. The carriageway surface may
be used to represent the black stripes if it provides a
reasonable contrast with the white.
15.8 The Give Way line consists of a single broken
line comprising 500 mm marks and 500 mm gaps,
and is 200 mm wide. It is normally sited between
1.1 m and 3 m from the edge of the stripes on the
crossing, whether or not studs are used, and must
extend across the full width of the carriageway. This
3 m limit may be increased up to 10 m if necessary
(Schedule 1 para 11(3) of the Pedestrian Crossings
Regulations).

ZEBRA CROSSINGS
15.4 The markings used to indicate a zebra crossing
and its controlled areas (see figure 15-1) are:
(i)

alternate black and white stripes (see

paras 15.5 to 15.7),

PELICAN, PUFFIN AND TOUCAN CROSSINGS

(ii) Give Way lines lines (see para 15.8),

15.9 The carriageway markings used to indicate the

presence of these crossings (see figure 15-2) and their
controlled areas are:

(iii) zig-zag lines including terminal lines (see

paras 15.14 to 15.26), and

(i)

Stop lines (see para 15.10),

(iv) road studs (see paras 15.27 to 15.28).

(ii) zig-zag lines including terminal lines (see
paras 15.14 to 15.26), and

15.5 Black and white stripes, between 2.4 m and

10 m long in the direction of travel (see para 15.2 for
guidance on how to determine crossing width) are

(iii) road studs (see paras 15.27 to 15.28).

88

PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS

Road studs
(see para 15.28)

155
max

Limits of
crossing

For width of stripes

see para 15.6

2400 min
10000 max
1100 min
3000 max

500 max

Give Way line

150
200

500

500

Position of
yellow globe

Limits of controlled area

150

Edge of carriageway

Edge of carriageway

500

2000

100

200

150
250 max
Terminal
lines
Figure 15-1

89

600

PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS

Road studs
(see para 15.28)
200

* 3000 min for a

Toucan crossing
Limits of
crossing

* 2400 min
10000 max
1700 min
3000 max

Stop line
Diagram 1001
150

200
(300)

Limits of controlled area

150

Edge of carriageway

Edge of carriageway

500

2000

100

200

150
250 max
Terminal
lines
Figure 15-2

90

600

PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS

15.10 The Stop line to diagram 1001 indicates the

position where traffic must stop when signalled to do
so (see also para 3.7). The Stop line must be placed at
least 1.7 m and normally not more than 3 m from the
studs. This distance may be extended to a maximum
of 10 m if necessary (Schedule 4 para 5(3) of the
Pedestrian Crossings Regulations). On two-way roads
the Stop line extends from the edge to the centre
line, and on one-way roads across the full width.

another in the centre. On carriageways up to 6 m in

width, the latter may be replaced with a warning line
to diagram 1004. On carriageways more than 6 m
wide, a zig-zag line is always used as the centre line.
On multi-lane approaches, the lane lines should also
be replaced with zig-zag markings. Where there is a
pedestrian refuge, a double row of zig-zag markings
should be used in the centre.
15.16 The zig-zag marks are angled between two
guide lines 500 mm apart. In standard and all longer
patterns, the unit length of each zig-zag mark should
be 2 m. They may be set out using a stencil
positioned between the guide lines (see figure 15-3).

EQUESTRIAN CROSSINGS
15.11 The markings at equestrian crossings
(diagram 1055.2) are similar to those at Pelicans
except that a second crossing place is provided for
horses (see figure 15-4). Where no facility is required
for other users, diagram 1055.1 is used.
15.12 The two crossing places are placed a minimum
of 3 m apart to prevent pedestrians and cyclists being
intimidated by horses. In order to deter drivers from
stopping between the two crossings, the separation
must be no greater than 5 m.

150

500

15.13 At traffic signal controlled junctions, markings

to diagram 1055.1 may be used where cyclists cross
under the control of signals, or where pedestrians
cross whether or not they are themselves controlled
by signals (see figures 9-1 and 9-2 and para 9.15).

Length
of zigzag m
ark

OTHER CROSSINGS

100

ZIG-ZAG AND TERMINAL LINES

15.14 Zig-zag markings are used at Zebra, Pelican,
Puffin, Toucan and equestrian crossings, the standard
pattern comprising eight 2 m marks. They must not
be used at crossings at signalled road junctions. The
controlled area over which the Regulations apply
extends from the limit of the crossing up to and
including the terminal line. The length between the
Give Way or Stop line and the terminal line is marked
with zig-zags (see figures 15-1 and 15-2).

150
200
600
Terminal line

15.15 At Zebra crossings, a longitudinal zig-zag line

should be laid on each side of the carriageway, with

Figure 15-3

91

PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS

Stop line
Diagram
1001

* 3000 min for a

Toucan crossing
1700 min
3000 max
Limits of
crossing

Pedestrian, cycle or
Toucan crossing

* 2400 min
10000 max

3000 min
5000 max

Diagram
1055.2

Limits of
crossing

Equestrian crossing

2400 min
10000 max
1700 min
3000 max

Edge of carriageway

Edge of carriageway

Stop line
Diagram 1001

Figure 15-4

92

PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS

15.17 The length of the section of controlled area

from the Give Way or Stop line to the terminal line
inclusive (the marked controlled area, L in para 15.18)
equals NX + (N+1)150 + Y + Z, where N = the
number of zig-zag lines, X = the longitudinal limit of
each mark (see figure 15-3), Y = the width of the
Give Way or Stop line and Z = the width of the
terminal line (all dimensions in millimetres). For a 2 m
mark, X = 1.979 m, and the length L for eight 2 m
marks is 17.585 m. Where a longer approach marking
is required, e.g. where visibility is poor or the speed
of traffic is high, the number of marks may be
increased up to a maximum of 18. The aim should be
to lay at least the standard pattern of eight 2 m marks
on both sides of the crossing. Where site constraints
prevent this, the length of the zig-zag marks may be
varied to a minimum of 1 m and the number of marks
reduced to a minimum of two. Zig-zag marks shorter
than 2 m should be used only to indicate a controlled
area of fewer than eight marks. Even then marks as
near as possible to the maximum 2 m length should
be provided, using a smaller number if necessary;
each mark in each zig-zag line must be substantially
the same length as the other marks in the same line.

15.18 For controlled area lengths between 2.750 m

and 17.585 m, the appropriate number of zig-zag
marks should be determined from table 15-1. The
longitudinal limit of each mark (X in figure 15-3) is
obtained from the formula X = L - 350 - Y - 150 N
N
where L = the overall length available for marking,
Y = the width of the Give Way or Stop line and
N = the number of marks required from table 15-1
(all dimensions in millimetres).
15.19 Crossings on major roads should be located
away from conflict points at uncontrolled junctions.
The controlled area may extend across the mouth of
a side road but it should never stop between the two
projected kerb lines of the minor road. If this would
otherwise occur, the zig-zag lines should be extended
to the projection of the far kerb line of the side road.
15.20 Crossings on minor roads close to junctions
will tend to restrict the layout of the controlled area
markings. To preserve the effectiveness of a junction
Give Way or Stop line, the terminal line of the zig-zag
markings should not normally be less than 1 m from
it. This distance may be reduced to 500 mm if
necessary to enable the minimum pattern of
markings to be laid. The controlled area should never
extend beyond the nearer kerb line of the major road.
It should be the aim to provide room for at least one
vehicle turning into the minor road to wait at the
crossing without obstructing traffic on the major
road. More vehicles should be accommodated if
there are large numbers turning. If signalled
pedestrian crossings are sited too close to junctions,
drivers might mistake a vehicular green signal for a
priority signal over traffic on the major road.

Table 15-1 Numbers of zig-zags

Length available for the
Recommended
marked controlled area
number of equal
(m)
length zig-zag marks
2.750 - 4.500
4.500 - 6.500
6.500 - 9.000
9.000 - 11.000
11.000 - 13.000
13.000 - 15.500
15.500 - 17.585

2
3
4
5
6
7
8

15.21 Where part of a lay-by lies within the

controlled area, the zig-zag markings should be laid
along the edge of the main carriageway. However,
the restrictions extend to the back of the lay-by.

NOTES
1. The length indicated in the first column consists of
the controlled area detailed on figures 15-1 and
15-2, excluding the distance between the Stop or
Give Way line and the limit of the crossing.
2. Crossings must not be laid with fewer than two
zig-zag marks.
3. Where a length in the first column is common to
two recommended numbers of marks, the lower
number should be adopted.

15.22 Normally all zig-zag lines in a pattern should

comprise the same number of marks. However, the
Pedestrian Crossings Regulations allow for an
exception to this rule to provide maximum coverage
of the controlled area where the distance available
for the marks on each side of the carriageway is
unequal.

93

PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS

15.23 On dual carriageway roads and one-way

streets, at least the standard pattern of eight 2 m
marks should be laid on both sides of the crossing
wherever possible (see also para 15.17).

crossing, except at Zebra crossings where studs are

optional and the limits are indicated by the stripes.
At equestrian crossings, two crossing points are
provided (see paras 15.11, 15.12 and figure 15-4).

15.24 Where a crossing is situated close to a

roundabout, the markings should never be extended
into the circulatory area, and they should be subject
to the restrictions described in para 15.20.

15.28 Studs may be omitted at Zebra crossings,

but must be provided at all other crossings. When
provided, they must comply with the following
requirements:

15.25 The Pedestrian Crossings Regulations permit

markings to diagrams 1029 (see paras 22.26 to 22.28
and diagram 6 in Schedule 4 of the Pedestrian
Crossings Regulations) and 1062 to be used at or
near a crossing. The use of diagram 1062 is described
in paras 21.7 to 21.16. No other marking may be
used within the controlled area, except hatched and
chevron markings in the circumstances described in
para 15.26.

(i)

(ii) they must be either square or circular in

shape. The sides of square or the diameter
of circular studs must be not less than
95 mm nor more than 110 mm,

15.26 The Pedestrian Crossings Regulations do not

permit the use of central hatched or chevron
markings within the controlled area of zebra
crossings. Such markings may be used between a
central double row of zig zags with Pelican, Puffin
and Toucan crossings only in the following
circumstances:
(i)

they must be white, silver or light grey in

colour and may be laid in road marking
material or be conventional nonreflective road studs, in which case they
must not project above the carriageway by
more than 20 mm at their highest point nor
more than 6 mm at their edges,

(iii) road marking material may be reflectorised,

but retroreflecting road studs must not be
used,
(iv) centres of studs in the same line must not
be less than 250 mm apart nor more than
715 mm at a Zebra crossing, and not less
than 500 mm nor more than 720 mm for
other crossings. The centre of the nearest
stud must be no more than 1300 mm from
the edge of the carriageway, and

diagram 1040 may be used on the

approach to a central reservation
(including pedestrian refuge) of a single
crossing in a two-way road (Schedule 4,
Part I, para 3(2) of the Pedestrian Crossings
Regulations), and diagram 1041 in a oneway road (para 4(2)), and

(v) the two lines of studs need not be at right

angles to the edge of the carriageway, but
they must form straight lines and, as far as
practicable, be parallel to each other.

(ii) diagram 1040.2 must be used on the

approach to a staggered crossing
(Schedule 4, Part I, para 3(3)).

ROAD STUDS

TRAFFIC CALMING

15.27 Road studs are arranged in two lines across

the carriageway. They delineate the limits of the

15.29 For guidance on the placing of crossings on

road humps, see para 21.17.

94

16 CYCLE MARKINGS
GENERAL

Diagram 1049

16.1 Cycle facilities may take the form of cycle lanes

(see paras 16.4 to 16.13) which run along the road
and form part of the carriageway, and cycle tracks
which are separate from the carriageway and meet
up with it only to cross or join it (see paras 16.14
to 16.19). Cycle lanes may be mandatory, where
other vehicles are excluded for at least part of the
day (see paras 16.4 to 16.8), or advisory, where other
vehicles may enter if necessary and when it is safe to
do so (see paras 16.9 and 16.10). Coloured surfacing
(see para 16.12) may be helpful.

Diagram
1057
Diagram
959.1

Diagram
962.1

16.2 Cycle lanes should be a minimum of 1.5 m

wide. Widths less than this give cyclists very little
room to manoeuvre around debris, surface defects or
gulley gratings. Slightly narrower widths may
nevertheless sometimes be helpful over short lengths,
e.g. on the immediate approach to a junction. Where
cycle flows are heavy, there may be advantages in
increasing the width up to 2.0 m, but lanes wider
than this are likely to be abused by other traffic.

Diagram 1057
Diagram
1004

16.3 For use on cycle lanes and tracks, the

Regulations prescribe half-size variants of diagrams
1003 (Give Way line), 1009 (edge of carriageway)
and 1023 (Give Way triangle), and small versions of
the SLOW marking (diagram 1058.1) and the lane
arrow (diagram 1059), see paras 16.23 to 16.25. The
markings to diagrams 1040, 1040.2, 1041 and
1041.1 may have one of the boundary lines omitted
when used alongside the line to diagram 1049
marking a cycle lane. Diagram 1057 (cycle symbol) is
prescribed with alternative dimensions. The width of
lane available and the required conspicuity of the
marking will determine the appropriate size; the
largest (1700 mm) is used with the advanced stop line
(see paras 16.20 to 16.22). When used with a right
turn arrow, the cycle symbol should be reversed to
face right.

Diagram 1057

Diagram
1049

Diagram
1057
Diagram
959.1

Diagram 1009

Diagram 958.1

MANDATORY CYCLE LANES

16.4 Mandatory cycle lanes are parts of the
carriageway which other vehicles must not enter
except to pick up or set down passengers, or in case
of emergency. They may be either with-flow (see

Diagram 1014

Figure 16-1

95

CYCLE MARKINGS

figure 16-1) or contra-flow (see figure 16-2). Contraflow lanes apply for 24 hours, but with-flow lanes
may operate for shorter periods, e.g. morning and
evening peak hours.

Diagram 1003

Diagram 1009

Diagram
960.1

Diagram
1023

16.5 With-flow mandatory cycle lanes are bounded

by a 150 mm continuous white line to diagram 1049.
The marking should be interrupted for the length of
any bus stop marked by diagram 1025.1. At side road
junctions the mandatory lane should change to an
advisory one bordered by a 150 mm wide line to
diagram 1004 or 1004.1; an additional cycle symbol
to diagram 1057 should be placed in the lane in
front of drivers emerging from the side road. The
marking to diagram 1049 may be continued across
private driveways; the traffic regulation order should
provide exemption for access.

Diagram
1049
Diagram
1057
Diagram
962.1

16.6 Regulation 4 requires the start of a cycle lane

to be marked with a broken line to diagram 1009
(600 mm mark, 300 mm gap). If the speed limit is
40 mph or less, the 150 mm wide line is used,
otherwise it should be 200 mm wide. As other
traffic must not enter a mandatory cycle lane,
adequate warning of the approach should be given
by ensuring that the inclination of this line is no
sharper than 1:10. Cycle symbol markings
(diagram 1057) must be placed at the start of the
lane and should be repeated after every break, as
well as at suitable intervals on long uninterrupted
lengths. A sign to diagram 958.1 should be used in
advance of a mandatory cycle lane, together with an
arrow to diagram 1014, and signs to diagram 959.1
must be used at intervals along its length.

Diagram 606
and 954.4

Diagram
1004
Diagram
960.1

Diagram
1057
Diagram
1049

Diagram
1040

NOT TO
SCALE

1000
approx

16.7 A traffic regulation order will be required to

prohibit other vehicles from using the lane (except for
emergency and statutory purposes). The order should
also prohibit waiting and loading during the
operational hours of the lane. Yellow no waiting
lines and kerb no loading marks are not necessary,
unless it is required to prohibit waiting or loading for
some period outside the operational hours of the
cycle lane. In practice, many authorities nevertheless
provide yellow lines and loading marks, even when
the restrictions do not apply outside these hours, to
encourage better compliance. Upright signs detailing
the times of waiting and loading restrictions must
then also be used.

Diagram
1023

Diagram
1059

Diagram
616

Diagram
1057
Diagram
955

Diagram 1009

Diagram 955
on bollard
Figure 16-2

96

Diagram 1003

CYCLE MARKINGS

16.8 Contra-flow mandatory cycle lanes (see

figure 16-2) are marked in a similar way to with-flow
lanes, except that the marking to diagram 1009 at
the commencement of the lane will be laid at right
angles to it, as the lane normally starts at a junction.
The sign to diagram 960.1 is used to warn traffic
travelling in the opposite direction. Waiting and
loading should be prohibited at all times to avoid the
lane becoming obstructed and thereby putting
cyclists into conflict with oncoming vehicles.

Edge of carriageway

16.9 Advisory cycle lanes are parts of the

carriageway which other vehicles should not enter
unless it is seen to be safe to do so. They should
normally be with-flow (see figure 16-3), but may be
contra-flow, in which case the signs would need to
be specially authorised (see para 2.1). They should be
bounded by a 100 mm wide warning line to diagram
1004 where the speed limit is 40 mph or less, or
1004.1 where it is greater than 40 mph. The line may
be widened to 150 mm for greater emphasis, but in a
two-way road it should never be wider than the
centre line. For a contra-flow lane, the wider line
should always be used.
16.10 The start of the cycle lane must be marked
by a broken line to diagram 1009 (600 mm mark,
300 mm gap). If the speed limit is 40 mph or less,
the 150 mm wide line is used, otherwise it should
be 200 mm wide. As the lane is advisory, it is not
essential for other vehicles to be deflected in advance
of it. Angles between the line and the kerb of 30 to
45 are therefore often adequate, although longer
taper lengths may be used. Cycle symbol markings
(diagram 1057) and upright signs (diagram 967) must
be placed at the start of the lane and after every
break, as well as at suitable intervals on long
uninterrupted lengths. Waiting and loading
restrictions should be implemented to cover the times
when the lane is most heavily used and should be
indicated by the use of yellow lines, kerb markings
and appropriate upright signs. An advisory cycle lane
may be continued on the off side of a parking bay as
shown in figure 16-3. Adequate clearance should be
provided to allow for carelessly opened car doors.

Edge of carriageway

ADVISORY CYCLE LANES

Carriageway
Parking
bay
1.0 m wide
clearance
(0.5 m min)

1.5 m
advisory
cycle lane

Figure 16-3

97

1.5 m advisory
cycle lane bounded
by diagram 1004
with lead-in taper
to diagram 1009

CYCLE MARKINGS

USE OF BUS LANES BY CYCLES

16.15 Where a route is divided into separate parts

for the use of cyclists and of pedestrians, segregation
may be achieved using the continuous marking to
diagram 1049 (150 mm width) or by the raised
profile marking to diagram 1049.1 (see figure 16-4).
The latter is more easily detected by blind and
partially-sighted pedestrians. Alternatively, separation
may be effected by the use of railings, a difference in
level, or by the use of contrasting coloured surfaces
(direction 33).

16.11 Cycles are normally allowed to use with-flow

bus lanes; the BUS LANE marking to diagram 1048 is
used. Upright signs to diagram 958 and 959 indicate
that cycles may use the lane. Where cycles are
permitted to use contra-flow bus lanes, markings to
diagram 1048.1 BUS AND (cycle symbol) LANE must
be used in place of diagram 1048. This marking must
not be used in with-flow bus lanes.

COLOURED ROAD SURFACES

50 50 50

16.12 Cycle lanes and cycle reservoirs (see

paras 16.20 to 16.22) may be surfaced in coloured
material in order to demarcate them more
emphatically and to discourage encroachment by
motor vehicles. However, coloured surfacing has no
legal significance; it is the prescribed traffic signs and
road markings that establish the legal status of a
cycle lane.

CYCLE LANES AT PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS

16.13 Cycle lane markings must not be continued
through the zig-zag area of a pedestrian crossing.
Apart from the potentially confusing effect, they
might also affect the legality of the marking of the
crossing. If coloured surfacing is used for the cycle
lane, this may be continued through the controlled
area (although not through the crossing place itself),
but the zig-zag marking must remain at the edge of
the carriageway.

CYCLE TRACKS
16.14 A cycle track may be a physically segregated
part of a highway, or form a separate highway
entirely distinct from the road system. It may form
a route for cycles only, a segregated route shared
with pedestrians where cyclists and pedestrians use
separate parts of the track, or an unsegregated route
where both cyclists and pedestrians use the full width
of the track.

12 min
20 max

6 max
cross section
Diagram 1049.1
Figure 16-4

98

CYCLE MARKINGS

CYCLE TRACKS CROSSING ROADS

(diagrams 1003 and if required 1023, see

figure 16-5) together with the smaller size edge line
to diagram 1009, should be used for a two-way cycle
track at such locations. Where an unsegregated cycle
track shared with pedestrians joins a road, the Stop
line or Give Way marking should be used across the
full width of the track and the cycle symbol to
diagram 1057 should not be used.

16.16 Except as described in para 3.25, a cycle track

crossing a road will be the minor road at a priority
junction, and marked as shown in figure 16-5, or be
under signal control (see figure 16-6). The marking
(sometimes known as elephant's footprints)
formerly shown on working drawing WBM 294
and in LTN 1 / 86 Cyclists at Road Crossings and
Junctions should never be used to indicate an
unsignalled crossing point. It is liable to cause
confusion, and be misunderstood as giving cyclists
priority over road traffic. At signalled crossings, the
marking to diagram 1055.1 is usually adequate to
indicate the crossing point for cyclists. However, if
the route to be followed is not straightforward, the
elephant's footprints marking might be helpful.
As it is not prescribed, special authorisation must be
sought from the Secretary of State (see para 2.1).

16.18 If the cycle track crosses a dual carriageway

road, the crossing should be staggered in the
direction that turns cyclists to face oncoming traffic.
The junction between the track and the main
carriageway should be marked in accordance with
the principles shown in figure 16-5 for a priority
junction and figure 16-6 for a signalled junction.
16.19 Signs to diagram 963.1 (CYCLE TRACK LOOK
BOTH WAYS) may be used to warn pedestrians of
cyclists crossing the footway. The warning signs to
diagram 950 or 543 as appropriate may be used to
warn main road traffic of the crossing point.

16.17 The 200 mm Stop line (diagram 1001) or the

half-size variants of the Give Way markings

Cycle track

Footway

955

Footway

Footway

955

Cycle track
Figure 16-5

99

Footway

CYCLE MARKINGS

Cycle
track

Footway

955

Footway

Footway

955

Footway

NOTE: Signs to diagram 606 (ahead only)

and 954.4 or 954.5 (Except cycles) may
be used at the primary and secondary
signals facing traffic on the main route.

Cycle
track
Figure 16-6

ADVANCED STOP LINES FOR CYCLISTS

16.22 Where there is a significant left turn flow of

motor vehicles, but cyclists travel straight ahead, the
approach cycle lane may be positioned centrally (see
figure 16-7). The lane will be advisory, as it can then
be indicated using markings to diagram 1057 and
1004 or 1004.1 without the need for an upright sign.

16.20 Figure 16-7 shows typical layouts for an

advanced stop line (diagram 1001.2) forming a
reservoir space for cyclists at signalled junctions.
They may not be used at level crossings or standalone
signal-controlled crossings (for pedestrians, cyclists or
equestrians).

WORDED MARKINGS AND ARROWS

16.21 Vehicles other than cycles must stop at the
first line when signalled to do so. An advisory or
mandatory cycle lane, preferably 1.5 m wide, must be
provided to enable cyclists to enter the reservoir
lawfully, i.e. without crossing the first stop line. The
two Stop lines must be between 4 and 5 m apart; the
area between them across the full width of the
approach is available for cyclists to wait at the red
light. This area and the approach lane may be
highlighted using coloured surfacing (see also para
16.12). The Stop lines should be 200 mm or 300 mm
wide (see para 3.7) and the boundary line should be
the same width as the centre line of the road (this
may be omitted where it is adjacent to a kerb).

16.23 Figure 16-8 shows the reduced size SLOW

marking to diagram 1058.1. The available lane width
will determine the appropriate size.
16.24 The END marking (diagram 1058) is used only
at the end of a route. It is not intended to be used at
short breaks, nor where facilities continue in another
form. It is prescribed in three sizes (750 x 705 mm,
1100 x 1035 mm and 1700 x 1600 mm). The available
lane width will determine the appropriate size.
16.25 Figure 16-9 shows reduced size arrows to
diagram 1059. The smaller size arrow should be used
with the smallest size of cycle symbol.

100

CYCLE MARKINGS

1700

1700

4000 min
5000 max

Diagram 1057

Diagram 1009

Diagram 1041

Diagram 1001.2
Figure 16-7

(250) 500

(175) 350

(995) 1460

(1000)
2000

(1000)
2000
(705)
1035

(100) 200
Diagram 1058.1

Diagram 1059

Figure 16-8

Figure 16-9

101

(100) 200

17 BUS MARKINGS
GENERAL

(cycle symbol) LANE is prescribed specifically for use

with contra-flow lanes if cycles are admitted (see
para 17.12) and must not be used in with-flow lanes.

17.1 This section should be read in conjunction with

LTN 1 / 97 Keeping Buses Moving, available from
the Stationery Office (ISBN 0-11-551914-9).

17.7 Deflection arrows to diagram 1014 should be

placed 15 m and 30 m upstream of the start of the
taper. The arrows should be 4.5 m long for speed
limits up to 40 mph, 6 m for 50 or 60 mph, and 9 m
for 70 mph. Traffic should be deflected to the right
when the bus lane occupies the near side lane and to
the left when it occupies the off side lane.

17.2 Bus lanes may be either with-flow (see

paras 17.3 to 17.11) or contra-flow (see paras 17.12
to 17.15).

WITH-FLOW BUS LANES

17.8 Where a bus lane passes a junction with a
major left-turning flow into the side road, the line to
diagram 1049 should be replaced with a broken line
to diagram 1010 (see figure 17-1). The broken line
should commence 30 m in advance of the junction,
and have the same width as the bus lane line. It
should be accompanied by the advisory direction
arrow to diagram 1050 (varied to show a left turn).
Detailed dimensions of the permitted variants
are shown on the working drawing P 1050 (see
para 1.17). At other junctions, the diagram 1049
marking should be terminated approximately 10 m
before the junction (or at the junction if the minor
road is one-way towards the major road,
recommencing beyond the junction in combination
with a marking to diagram 1010 (see figure 17-1).

17.3 The commonest form of bus priority measure is

the with-flow bus lane, where buses travel in the
same direction as traffic in the adjacent lane. It is
normally used at the near side of the road. It may
be used on the off side of a one-way road or dual
carriageway, or may form the centre lane of a
three-lane single carriageway road, but in such cases
the markings and upright signs will need special
authorisation (see para 2.1).
17.4 Figure 17-1 indicates a typical layout for a
with-flow lane. Where roads are wide enough, the
bus lane should be 4.25 m wide, with a minimum
preferred width of 4 m. This allows buses to overtake
cycles safely and reduces the likelihood of
interference from general traffic in the adjacent lane.
The minimum recommended width is 3 m.

17.9 With-flow bus lanes should normally be

stopped short of the Stop line at traffic signal
controlled junctions and the carriageway marked
with an arrow to diagram 1050 (see figure 17-1).
The purpose of this set-back is to ensure that full
saturation flow can be sustained throughout the
green period at traffic signals, thus minimising the
delays to other traffic. It also facilitates, and makes
safer, left turns at the junction. As a general guide,
the length of the set-back (in metres) should normally
be twice the minimum green time (in seconds),
although it may be necessary to adjust this if there
are special local site conditions or to take account of
the variations in green time in active-response UTC
systems. A with-flow bus lane should be brought up
to the Stop line at a traffic signal only if a reduction
in capacity of the junction is acceptable, if safe
provision can be made for any left-turning traffic and
if right-turning traffic can be accommodated in such
a way that it does not restrict flow in the ahead lanes.

17.5 The bus lane is separated from the rest of the

carriageway by a continuous line to diagram 1049.
The width of the line will be 250 or 300 mm
depending upon site conditions, particularly the
width of road available. The start of the lane is
marked with a broken line to diagram 1010, the
same width as the 1049 marking, and laid at a taper
no sharper than 1:10. The lane should not start in
such a position that the taper would extend across a
side road junction.
17.6 The legend BUS LANE to diagram 1048 should
be marked in the lane at its commencement. It
should also appear after every side road junction on
the same side of the road as the bus lane, and, in
conjunction with signs to diagram 959, at intervals
not exceeding 300 m along uninterrupted lengths of
the lane. The marking to diagram 1048.1 BUS AND

102

BUS MARKINGS

Diagram 959
Signal-controlled
junction

One way

10 m
approx

Diagram
1050

Diagram 959

Diagram 1010
250 (300) wide

One way

Diagram
964

Diagram 959

Diagram 1049
250 (300) wide
Diagram
1048

Diagram 959
Diagram 1010
250 (300) wide
Taper should
not be sharper
than 1:10

Diagram 958
See Chapter 3
for siting details

30 m
approx

Diagram 1010
250 (300) wide
Diagram 1050
(permitted variant)
Diagram 877
(permitted variant)

Diagram 1014
(see para 17.7)
NOT TO SCALE
Figure 17-1

103

BUS MARKINGS

17.10 At roundabouts, a set-back should be

provided to allow left-turning traffic to take the near
side lane, and to ensure that the full width of the
roundabout entry is available to all traffic at peak
periods. The set-back distance should be determined
on site, unless the roundabout is controlled by traffic
signals in which case it should accord with the
guidance given in para 17.9.

be no left-turning traffic (except possibly buses). BUS

LANE road markings to diagram 1048 (or 1048.1 if
cycles are permitted to use the lane), together with
direction arrows to diagram 1038, should appear at
both ends of the lane, so that they can be read by
drivers approaching the contra-flow lane. These
markings should be repeated at every road junction
and at intervals not exceeding 300 m along
uninterrupted lengths.

17.11 The order creating a bus lane will prohibit

waiting during its operational hours. Yellow lines are
necessary only if the waiting restrictions cover some
period when the bus lane is not in operation.
Loading and unloading is permitted unless it is
specifically prohibited, in which case kerb marks and
corresponding upright signs are always required.

17.15 BUS LANE LOOK LEFT / LOOK RIGHT signs to

diagram 963 should be used at pedestrian crossing
places. The road marking to diagram 1029 should
also be used (see paras 22.26 to 22.28).

COLOURED ROAD SURFACES

17.16 Bus lanes may be surfaced in coloured
material in order to demarcate them more
emphatically and to discourage encroachment by
other vehicles. However, coloured surfacing has no
legal significance; it is the prescribed traffic signs and
road markings which establish the legal status of a
bus lane.

CONTRA-FLOW BUS LANES

17.12 Contra-flow bus lanes allow buses to travel
against the main direction of traffic flow in one-way
streets. They are usually located so that buses travel
with their near side to the kerb and are not normally
used in other locations, particularly where stopping
facilities are required. Cycles may be allowed to use
them but difficulties may be experienced at junctions
with vehicles turning across the lane, and with buses
waiting at stops. They might themselves be a source
of delay to buses, particularly in longer lanes.

BUS LANES AT PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS

17.17 Bus lane markings must not be continued
through the controlled area of a pedestrian crossing
(marked with zig-zags, see paras 15.14 to 15.26). The
marking to diagram 1049 bounding the with-flow or
contra-flow lane is not prescribed for use in such
situations; it should be replaced with a row of zigzags over the length of the controlled area on both
sides of the crossing. If a coloured surface has been
used for a bus lane (whether with-flow or contraflow), this may be continued through the controlled
area (although not through the crossing point itself).

17.13 Figure 17-2 indicates typical details for a

contra-flow lane. The bus lane, which should be at
least 3 m wide (4.0 to 4.25 m if cyclists are admitted),
is separated from the rest of the carriageway by a
continuous line to diagram 1049. The width of the
line will be 250 or 300 mm depending upon site
conditions, particularly the width of road available.
The marking should be discontinued where it passes
a traffic island, and angled at an appropriate taper
(see table 14-1) to guide vehicles from each direction
past the obstruction. Alternatively, the hatched
marking to diagram 1040.2 may be used, with the
bus lane line replacing one of the boundary lines as
shown in figure 17-2.

BUS-ONLY STREETS AND BUS GATES

17.18 Where streets are reserved for the use of buses
only, or buses and trams, or buses and cycles, the
entry should be marked with diagram 1048.3 BUS
ONLY, 1048.2 TRAM & BUS ONLY or 1048.4 BUS
AND (cycle symbol) ONLY as appropriate.

17.14 At junctions on the near side, the lane should

be discontinued, but unlike with-flow lanes a broken
line is not necessary on the approach since there will

104

BUS MARKINGS

Signal-controlled
junction
Diagram 960
(cycle symbol added
for bus and cycle
contra-flow lane)

Diagram 1049
250 (300) wide

Diagram
1038

4000
1000

Diagram 1048
(1048.1 for bus and
cycle contra-flow lane)

Diagram 1004
150 wide

Diagram 960
(cycle symbol added
for bus and cycle
contra-flow lane)

Diagram 1049
250 (300) wide

Diagram 1040.2
(permitted variant
placed alongside
diagram 1049)

Diagrams 953 & 953.2

(cycle symbol omitted
for bus only lane)
or
Diagrams 616
& 954 or 954.2
(bus only lane)

Diagram 616

NOT TO SCALE

Figure 17-2

105

BUS MARKINGS

17.19 Bus gates restrict entry to one end of a street

to buses only. Beyond the gate, other vehicles may be
encountered. The entrance to a bus gate should be
marked in the same manner as a bus-only street.

17.22 Where the stop serves frequent or multiple

services, or vehicles with different entrance positions,
the length of the bay may be increased in increments
of 2 m. The legend BUS STOP should be used once
for every complete length of 12 m. Under-used stops
of excessive length may result in enforcement
difficulties.

BUS STOPS

17.23 The Regulations prescribe the alternative

wording BUS STAND for use where buses are
expected to wait longer than the period necessary to
pick up or set down passengers (see Schedule 19
Part I).

17.20 The marking to diagram 1025.1 delineates

the limits of a bus stop on the main carriageway (see
figure 17-3), diagram 1025.3 a bus stop occupying
part of a lay-by (see figure 17-4) and 1025.4 a bus
stop occupying the whole of a lay-by (see figure
17-5). The yellow prohibition of stopping line in the
marking prevents vehicles from stopping for at least
part of the day, but must be used in conjunction with
signs to diagram 974 or 975. The prohibition can be
extended to 24 hours if appropriate by omitting the
times from the sign. The line should be 200 mm wide
where the speed limit is 60 mph or less, and 300 mm
where it is 70 mph. In Northern Ireland, the Roads
(Restriction of Waiting) Order (Northern Ireland) 1982
prohibits waiting at any time over the length of these
markings. This would be effective (in Northern Ireland
only) at times when the prohibition of stopping did
not apply.

200 (300)

1000
1000

Edge of carriageway

100

17.21 Both the worded marking and the broken line

delineating the stopping area must be coloured
yellow (except in Northern Ireland where it may be
white). Only one size of marking is prescribed for a
bus stop on the main carriageway. When the bus
stop is in a lay-by (see figures 17-4 and 17-5), the
width of the edge line should be 100 mm when the
speed limit is 40 mph or less, 150 mm when it is
50 mph or 60 mph, and 200 mm when it is 70 mph. If
the bus stop occupies only part of a lay-by (see figure
17-4), the broken edge line within the length of the
bus stop would be coloured yellow, whilst that
beyond it would be white.

1600
1000
1600

100 min
100
100

1000 1000
Diagram 1025.1
Figure 17-3

106

BUS MARKINGS

Diagram
1010

200
(300)

200
(300)

1000

1000

Edge of carriageway

Edge of carriageway

1000

1000

1600
1000
1600

100 min

1600
1000
1600

100 min

100
(150)
(200)

100
(150)
(200)

Diagram 1025.3

Diagram 1025.4

Figure 17-4

Figure 17-5

107

18 TRAM MARKINGS
GENERAL

marking to diagram 1048.2 TRAM ONLY or TRAM &

BUS ONLY (see figure 18-1 and para 18.6). Although
only these vehicles are allowed to pass through the
gate, other vehicles may be encountered in the road
ahead.

18.1 The general principles for signing and marking

tramways are set out in HM Railway Inspectorates
Railway Safety Principles and Guidance, Part 2,
Section G, Guidance on Tramways published by the
Health and Safety Executive (ISBN 0-7176-0951-0).
The following paragraphs give more detailed
guidance on the use of road markings for streetrunning tramways. Early contact should be made with
the Inspectorate to discuss design issues.

SEGREGATED TRAMWAYS
18.5 These may take the form of either a road that is
reserved for trams only, or one in which other
vehicles are allowed, but are physically separated
from the tram route. In each case, buses may also be
permitted to use the facility. No markings are
currently prescribed for tram lanes and they would
need to be specially authorised (see para 2.1).

18.2 Tramways may be categorised as follows:

(i)

integrated on-street tramways (see

para 18.3) where the part of the highway
occupied by the rails may be used by other
vehicles or by pedestrians,

(ii) tram gates (see para 18.4), where only

trams (and buses if permitted) travel along
a short length of road that precedes an
integrated on-street system,

1600
(iii) segregated on-street tramways or tram-only
streets (see paras 18.5 and 18.6) where the
part of the highway occupied by rails may
be crossed by pedestrians, but is not
normally shared with other road users, or

1000

(iv) off-street tramways (see para 18.7 to

18.10) where the alignment of the track
is wholly separate from the highway.

1000

1600

1600
INTEGRATED TRAMWAYS

1000

18.3 Markings are used at junctions (see paras 18.11

to 18.15), at tram stops (see para 18.16 to 18.18) and
to indicate the swept path of trams (see paras 18.19
to 18.23).

1600

TRAM GATES

Diagram 1048.2

18.4 Access to an integrated route may be controlled

by tram gates. These allow the passage of trams
(and buses if permitted) using vertical signing to
diagrams 953.1 and 953.2 in conjunction with the

Figure 18-1

108

TRAM MARKINGS

18.6 The worded marking to diagram 1048.2 TRAM

ONLY or TRAM & BUS ONLY should be laid at the
commencement of a segregated length of tramway
and after any break where a road crosses the
tramway. The marking should be laid so that no part
of the lettering is on the running or check rails of the
tram track. It should be arranged so that the words
TRAM and ONLY are centred on the tracks with
the first and last letters outside the running rails. The
ampersand & is centred between the running rails
and BUS needs to be offset, with the first letter
outside the left hand running rail and the other two
letters between the check rails (see figure 18-1).

18.10 A minimum of three arrows should be used to

guide road vehicles past the divergence. The final
arrow (3) should be positioned immediately after the
point of divergence. The second and first arrows (2)
and (1) should be placed before the point of
divergence at distances equivalent to 1 and 3
seconds of travel respectively. These distances and
the size of arrows that should be used are indicated
in table 18-1. The appropriate type of arrow (diagram
1014 or 1038) depends upon the nature of the
divergence, and is indicated in table 18-2 and figure
18-2. If the layout of the road is such that drivers
might mistake arrow (1) or (2) as an indication to
move to the next lane, then it should be omitted.

OFF-STREET TRAMWAYS

Table 18-1 Arrow size and location

Speed
limit
(mph)

18.7 Where a tramway diverges from an integrated

system at a shallow angle onto a reserved length of
track or to a tram stop, particular care needs to be
taken to ensure that other drivers do not follow the
tracks; this is particularly hazardous where it is the
road that deviates leaving the tracks to carry straight
on. Road markings are essential, in addition to
appropriate vertical signing.

30
40
50
60
70

18.8 An edge line to diagram 1012.1 (see

figure 18-2 and paras 4.31 to 4.38) should be
provided, following the edge of the main
carriageway at an angle across the tram tracks. The
line should be discontinued where it crosses the
running and check rails, but resumed in the space
between the rails. This line should be supplemented
by reflecting road studs of the appropriate colour (see
para 6.9). Any stud laid within 2 m of the running rail
should be of plastic construction. Physical measures
to dissuade other vehicles from being driven along
the tram track are recommended, e.g. the edge line
may be supplemented by a low kerb painted
alternately black and white, or by hostile paving.

Arrow
length
(m)

4.5 (4)
4.5 (4)
6
6
9

Distance from
point of divergence (m)
Arrow number
1

40.5
54.0
67.5
81.0
94.5

13.5
18.0
22.5
27.0
31.5

0
0
0
0
0

NOTE: The smallest arrows to diagram 1014 and

1038 are 4.5 m and 4 m long respectively.
Table 18-2 Arrow type
Arrow type

Description
Figure
of divergence

18.9 Warning lines to diagrams 1004 or 1004.1 (see

paras 4.12 to 4.26) should be laid in the centre of a
single carriageway road, and in place of lane lines on
multi-lane carriageways, following the line of the
main carriageway.

109

Arrow number
1

Tracks diverge
from road

18-2a
and 2b

1038

1038

1038

Road diverges
to the left

18-2c

1014

1014

1014

Road diverges
to the right

18-2d

1014

1014

1038

TRAM MARKINGS

Diagram 1038
(arrow 2)

Diagram
1012.1

Point of
divergence

Diagram 1038
(arrow 3)

Diagram 1066
(swept path)

(a)
Diagram 1038
(arrow 2)

(b)

Diagram 1038
(arrow 3)

Point of
divergence

Diagram 1014
(arrow 3)
Diagram 1014
(arrow 2)

Diagram 1066
(swept path)
Point of
divergence

(c)
Diagram
1012.1

Diagram 1014
(arrow 2)

(d)

Point of
divergence

NOTES
1. Markings for signal control at divergence not shown.
2. Arrow 1 not shown.
Figure 18-2

110

Diagram 1038
(arrow 3)

NOT TO SCALE

TRAM MARKINGS

ROAD JUNCTIONS

a STOP sign (diagram 601.1) and transverse Stop line

(diagram 1002.1). The use of the STOP sign requires
site approval by the Secretary of State (see para 2.1).
At all other junctions with a road carrying a tramway,
the minor road should have the transverse Give Way
line (diagram 1003), the triangular marking (diagram
1023) and a GIVE WAY sign (diagram 602).

18.11 Where a road is crossed by a segregated

tramway which operates as a signalled railway, the
junction should be signed and marked in the same
way as a railway level crossing (see section 19) using
the appropriate vertical tram signs.
18.12 Junctions with heavy traffic flows or restricted
visibility (including those which would normally be
signed with the diagram 601.1 STOP sign) should be
controlled by traffic signals with the special white
signals for tramcars (diagram 3013). Where the route
is for tramcars only, the transverse tram Stop line to
diagram 1001.1 (see figure 18-3) should be provided
at right angles to the tracks, positioned a minimum
of 1.5 m before the primary tram signal (2.5 m where
practicable). If trams are running with other vehicles
but not segregated from them with a physical refuge,
the Stop line to diagram 1001 should be used from
the kerb to the centre line. The tram Stop line may be
used in addition, either just in front of or just beyond
the Stop line; this might be necessary to facilitate
swept paths or where primary tram and other traffic
signals are not co-located. If the tram route is
segregated from other traffic by a refuge, the
respective Stop line is used on each side.

18.14 All transverse markings on roads joining a

tram route should be placed outside the swept path
of the tramcars (see paras 18.19 to 18.23).
18.15 Where yellow box markings (diagrams 1043
or 1044) are laid at a junction in accordance with the
guidance in section 12, the yellow marking should
not be laid on the running rails or check rails of the
tramway (see also para 18.23).

TRAM STOPS
18.16 On modern tramways, tramcars stop at
purpose-built platforms to help passengers to board.
These are readily recognisable by other traffic and the
raised platform makes it unattractive for other
vehicles to park there, so there should be no need for
clearway markings of the kind used at bus stops.

150 max
180

Variable

130

100

18.17 Where a tram stop platform is located on a

length of road shared with other traffic, it is
sometimes necessary for the raised platform to
project into the carriageway to ensure that it is close
enough to the tram for passengers to board. The end
of the platform facing approaching traffic should be
protected by kerbing or surface treatment, or by
hatched road markings to diagram 1040.4 (see
para 4.54) to guide other traffic away from the end
of the platform. Hazard reflectors to diagrams 560
or 561 might also be necessary.

100

Channel for wheel flange

Rails

Diagram 1001.1

18.18 If the tram stop is in a lay-by or on a short

length of road reserved for trams only, the TRAM
ONLY variant of diagram 1048.2 (see para 18.6) may
be used in conjunction with the sign to diagram
953.1 and the plate 953.2 to discourage other traffic
from entering the tram stop area. Where the track
leading to the tram stop diverges from the main
carriageway at a shallow angle, the techniques
described in paras 18.7 to 18.10 should be used.

Figure 18-3
18.13 At priority junctions, roads carrying tramways
should always be treated as the major road. Where
the minor road would normally be provided with a
vertical GIVE WAY sign (diagram 602), as well as the
Give Way road markings (diagrams 1003 and 1023,
see paras 3.14 to 3.23), this should be replaced with

111

TRAM MARKINGS

SWEPT PATH MARKINGS

different angle. These marks should therefore be

used where the swept path needs to be seen by tram
drivers only.

18.19 Tramcars are significantly wider than the

tracks on which they run, and the overhang increases
on curves. This swept path (which is the developed
kinematic envelope plus a safety margin, typically
300 mm) may be indicated by the use of colour,
texture or differences in level. It may also be shown
using road markings to either diagram 1010 or 1066.
The size of the safety margin should be agreed with
the Railway Inspectorate. The swept path should be
shown where it is not apparent from the carriageway
or kerbs. Where there is on-street parking, it is
essential that the swept path is visible to ensure that
vehicles are not left in a position to obstruct trams.

18.21 The markings to diagram 1010 or 1066

should be laid along the edge of the swept path. The
former marking should be 150 mm wide, whilst the
marks to diagram 1066 should be between 55 mm
and 100 mm in diameter and placed at 1.5 m centres,
although a spacing of up to 2.5 m is permitted where
necessary to avoid conflicting with other markings.
18.22 Where trams run together with other traffic on
a two-way road, the centre line marking should be
centrally located between the two swept paths.
Where these are closely adjacent to each other, the
marks next to the centre line should be omitted.

18.20 Where it is important that drivers of both

trams and other vehicles can readily identify the
swept path, a marking to diagram 1010 is normally
used. Where this might cause confusion to other
drivers, e.g. where the track passes through a
junction or the tramway diverges from the line of the
carriageway, the marking to diagram 1066 may be
used. The row of dots formed by this marking will be
clear to tram drivers, but will not be readily observed
by drivers of other vehicles who view them from a

18.23 Where a tramway passes through a yellow box

marking, the swept path should be indicated as
shown in figure 18-4. The yellow markings should be
terminated on either side of the swept path with a
200 mm wide boundary line. In these circumstances,
the swept path is for the guidance of tram drivers
only, so it is not necessary to continue the marking to
diagram 1010 through the box.

Diagram 1010
200

Swept
path

Figure 18-4

112

300

19 RAILWAY LEVEL CROSSINGS

GENERAL

19.3 Where road traffic light signals are installed,

(MCBs, AHBCs, ABCLs and AOCLs) transverse Stop
lines to diagram 1001 should be provided at right
angles to the carriageway on each approach
approximately 1 m before the primary traffic light
signal. At AOCLs this should be increased to 2 m.
The 300 mm size variant is recommended.

19.1 Before a new level crossing is marked out or the

markings at an existing crossing are modified, the
railway operator and H M Railway Inspectorate must
be consulted. Carriageway markings, road studs and
other signing associated with level crossings are
specified in the level crossing order (see also
para 19.15). The normal arrangement is set out in
detail in the Railway Inspectorates publication
Railway Safety Principles and Guidance, Part 2,
Section E, Guidance on Level Crossings (ISBN 07176-0952-9). Unless otherwise indicated in that
document, dimensions should be as specified in the
relevant sections of this chapter. The Inspectorate's
guidance details the following types of level crossing,
explains when each should be used and includes
drawings which show the road markings and vertical
signs to be used with them:
(i)

19.4 At OCs, Give Way lines to diagram 1003

should be provided at right angles to the carriageway
on each approach to the crossing, but not less than
2 m from the running edge of the nearest rail. Give
Way signs to diagram 602 and the triangular
markings to diagram 1023 must also be used.
19.5 As UWCs are installed only where private roads
cross the railway, carriageway markings are not
normally used. However, where a STOP sign to
diagram 601.1 is provided, a transverse Stop line to
diagram 1002.1 and the word STOP to diagram 1022
should also be provided unless the road surface is
unsuitable. If the private road is one to which the
public has access, these markings must be used,
utilising a short length of road surfacing if necessary.

gated crossings operated by railway staff

only,

(ii) manually controlled barrier crossing (MCB),

19.6 At AHBCs, ABCLs, AOCLs and OCs, a

pedestrian Give Way line to diagram 1003.2 should
be provided across any footway. It should also be
extended across the right hand side of a carriageway
marked with a centre line, but this is not necessary
where there are guard rails between the carriageway
and the footway. It is not used at MCBs as the full
width is controlled by barriers.

(iii) automatic half barrier crossing (AHBC),

(iv) automatic barrier crossing, locally
monitored (ABCL),
(v) automatic open crossing, locally monitored
(AOCL),
(vi) open crossing (OC), and

19.7 The pedestrian Give Way line should be at right

angles to the carriageway. It should be located
approximately 1 m on the approach side of any road
traffic light signal, except at open crossings where it
should be in line with the Give Way markings on the
left hand side of the carriageway. No part of the line
should be less than 2 m from the running edge of the
nearest rail.

(vii) user-worked crossing (UWC).

Road markings are not normally provided at gated
crossings operated only by railway staff, unless the
crossing is also signalled. Where they are, they should
conform to the following guidance.

19.8 At obtuse skew crossings, the Give Way line for

pedestrians should be provided in conjunction with a
pedestrian signal. The end of this pedestrian line at
the edge of the carriageway should be located not
less than 2 m from the nearest rail (see figure 9 in the
publication referred to in para 19.1).

TRANSVERSE MARKINGS
19.2 Transverse road markings should extend across
the left hand half of each two-way carriageway, or
across the full width of a carriageway which is either
one-way or has no centre line marking.

113

RAILWAY LEVEL CROSSINGS

LONGITUDINAL ROAD MARKINGS

19.14 The minimum length of double white lines

depends on the 85th percentile speed of private cars
using the road, and on the general width of the
carriageway (i.e. excluding any part of the crossing or
approaches which may have been specially widened).
Recommended overall lengths of the marking to
diagram 1013.1A, or a combination of that marking
and diagram 1013.1D, are shown in table 19-1. For
roads having a carriageway more than 7.3 m wide the
lengths in the table may be increased by up to 50%,
but the double lines should not extend beyond the
position of the sign to diagram 784.1, where this is
used, unless a lay-by is provided.

19.9 A continuous line to diagram 1012.1 should be

provided along each edge of the carriageway where
the road passes over a level crossing. Line widths are
detailed in table 4-5. A 100 mm wide line should also
be provided along the back of each footway and, if
separated from the main carriageway, along the front
edge. The markings should be continued as necessary
on each approach.
19.10 The type of centre line marking used generally
depends on the width of the carriageway (see paras
19.11 to 19.13).

19.15 At least one arrow to diagram 1014 must be

provided on each approach to the double lines at
crossings. This might be positioned outside the area
covered by the level crossing order; if so, the traffic
authority must ensure that it is provided. A second
arrow is normally used on each approach (see paras
5.13 to 5.16 and table 5-1).

19.11 Where the width of the carriageway over the

crossing is less than 5 m, centre line markings will not
normally be provided.
19.12 Where the width of the carriageway over the
crossing is 5 m or more, but less than 5.5 m, the
centre of the carriageway between the Stop or Give
Way lines should be marked with the appropriate
longitudinal warning line to diagram 1004 where the
speed limit is 40 mph or less, or 1004.1 where it is
greater than 40 mph. The warning line should extend
back from each Stop line for a distance equivalent to
at least the minimum number of marks indicated in
table 4-3, or for at least 6 m on each side of the
crossing if beyond this distance the carriageway is
less than 5 m in width.

ROAD STUDS
19.16 The Regulations require double white lines to
be accompanied by road studs (regulation 31(3)). A
single row of white studs must be used, laid between
the lines at nominal intervals of 4 m.
19.17 Any stud laid within 2 m of a running rail
should be of plastic construction.

19.13 Where the width of the carriageway at the

crossing and on the immediate approaches is 5.5 m
or more, the centre of the carriageway over the
crossing should be marked with a double continuous
line to diagram 1013.1A (see paras 19.16, 19.17 and
figure 19-1). This should be continued along the
approach to the crossing where justified by the
normal visibility criteria for double white lines; at
automatic half barrier crossings it should extend for
at least 12 m back from the Stop line. Unless the
double continuous line extends further back from
each Stop line than the distance indicated in
table 19-1, it should be preceded by a double white
line to diagram 1013.1D, with the continuous line
nearer to drivers approaching the crossing.

Table 19-1 Length of double white lines

114

85 percentile
speed
(mph)

Recommended
length of double lines
measured from the Stop line
(m)

Up to 30
31 to 40
Over 40

Up to 30
30 to 45
45 to 60

RAILWAY LEVEL CROSSINGS

YELLOW BOX MARKINGS

19.19 Where a long box is required (up to the 30 m

maximum prescribed), the marking should be
extended using additional diamond shaped units on
the approach side and additional diagonal crosses on
the trailing side of the crossing (see figure 19-2).

19.18 Yellow box markings to diagram 1045 may be

provided only where specified in the level crossing
order. They should be provided at AHBCs if the road
traffic flow in any one direction exceeds the figures in
table 19-2, but not normally at other types of
crossing. Figure 19-1 shows a layout for a box
marking at a single or double track railway crossing.

Diagram 1003.2
Diagram
1012.1

Table 19-2 Yellow box criterion

Overall width
Yellow box to be provided if
of carriageway
vehicle numbers in any one
(m)
hour in either direction exceed
5.0 to 5.9
6.0 to 7.4
7.5 and over

500
600
750

290 min
900 max

300

Footway

30000
max

200

100 min
90 min
100 min

15000 max
Diagram 1045
Figure 19-1

Figure 19-2

115

Diagram
1001

20 WAITING RESTRICTIONS
GENERAL

20.5 If restrictions are imposed in a lay-by, the lines

to diagram 1017 or 1018.1 should be laid at the
back of the lay-by and not along the continuation of
the main carriageway edge. This should leave no
room for doubt that restrictions apply in the lay-by.

20.1 Markings indicate where waiting is prohibited

(paras 20.3 to 20.6) or permitted (paras 20.11 to
20.27), and where loading is prohibited (paras 20.7
to 20.10). They are also used in conjunction with zonal
signing (paras 20.29 to 20.33).

20.6 Yellow waiting restriction lines must not be

laid through a pedestrian crossing or its controlled
area (the Zebra, Pelican and Puffin Pedestrian
Crossings Regulations and General Directions 1997,
regulation 9), nor at Toucan and equestrian crossings.
See para 5.1 for guidance on the use of waiting
restrictions with double white lines.

20.2 These markings must be used only to indicate

the effect of a statutory provision (see direction 7)
and (except for double yellow lines) must be used in
conjunction with appropriate vertical signs (see
direction 25). Further guidance will be found in
Chapter 3. Adequate vertical signing is essential, so
that drivers can readily establish the precise
restrictions in force. Inadequately signed restrictions
are likely to be legally unenforceable.

PROHIBITION OF LOADING MARKINGS

20.7 The markings consist of either a single or a
double transverse mark on the kerb. The double
mark (diagram 1020.1) indicates that loading or
unloading of vehicles on that side of a length of

PROHIBITION OF WAITING MARKINGS

20.3 The markings consist of either a single or a
double continuous yellow line laid at approximately
250 mm from the edge of the carriageway. The
double line (diagram 1018.1) indicates that waiting
of vehicles on that side of the road is prohibited at
any time during a period of at least four consecutive
months. The sign to diagram 637.3 is used only if the
time period is at least four but less than twelve
months. The single line (diagram 1017) indicates that
the prohibition applies for some lesser time (of day,
week or year). A transverse mark must be placed at
each end of a line, where one type of line changes to
another (see figure 20-1), where it abuts a bay
marking or a zig-zag line and at a point where a
vertical sign indicates the time period changes, but
the road marking remains the same. The restriction
imposed by these markings applies from the centre of
the road to the highway boundary on the side of the
road that the marking is laid (including any lay-bys).

Changeover
point

Indicates restrictions
shown by diagrams
1018.1 and 1020.1

approx 3 m*

Changeover
point

20.4 Three widths are prescribed for yellow lines.

The 75 mm size should be used on roads with a
speed limit of 40 mph or less, and 100 mm on
roads with a higher limit. In areas regarded as
environmentally sensitive, the 50 mm wide line may
be used. Alternative shades of yellow may be used
(see para 23.18). The gap between double lines must
in all cases be the same as the width of each line.

Indicates restrictions
shown by diagrams
1017 and 1019

* See para 20.9

Figure 20-1

116

WAITING RESTRICTIONS

20.9 The marks should be laid so that the first and

last in the series correspond with the limits of the
prohibition. Where two types of prohibition meet,
the more restrictive marking should be placed at the
point of change (see figure 20-1). The marks should
be repeated at approximately 3 m intervals, but may
be varied to between 2 m and 4 m to avoid a short
length at the end. This spacing ensures that there will
always be a mark alongside a stationary vehicle. A
larger spacing would allow a vehicle to stop between
the marks and a driver might claim that it was not
clear that the prohibition extended between them.

road is prohibited at any time during a period of at

least four consecutive months. The single mark
(diagram 1019) indicates that the prohibition applies
for some lesser time (of day, week or year) than this.
The restriction imposed by these markings applies
from the centre of the road to the highway boundary
on the side the marking is laid.
20.8 The kerb mark is 100 mm wide, with a gap
of 100 mm between the lines of the double mark.
The mark should be 250 mm long and may be
extended down the kerb face. Where there is no
raised kerb, the 300 mm mark should be used,
positioned so that its nearer end is approximately
250 mm from the prohibition of waiting line.

20.10 The marks must not be laid at a pedestrian

crossing, or within its controlled area.

Table 20-1 Bay marking details

Alternative legends

Diagram
No.

Width of bay
(mm)

Colour
of
marking

At
kerbside

In centre
of road

1028.2

TAXIS
AMBULANCES
POLICE

1800 min
2700 max

1800 min
2700 max

Yellow
See note

1028.3

DISABLED
BUSES
LARGE OR SLOW VEHICLES ONLY
LOADING ONLY
No legend

2700 min
(1800 min)
3600 max
See
para 20.13

3000 min
4200 max

White

1028.4

DOCTOR
SOLO MOTORCYCLES ONLY
SOLO M / CYCLES ONLY
SOLO M / CS ONLY
PERMIT HOLDERS ONLY
No legend

1800 min
2700 max

1800 min
2700 max

White

DOCTOR
DISABLED
LOADING ONLY
No legend

1800 min
2700 max

Not
prescribed

White

DOCTOR
No legend

2000 min
2500 max

Not
prescribed

White

DISABLED

3600

1032

1033

NOTE: In Northern Ireland the colour of diagram 1028.2 may be varied to white.

117

WAITING RESTRICTIONS

PARKING BAYS
20.11 Parking bays may be marked parallel to the
kerb, at an angle to it, wholly or partially on the
footway, or in the centre of the road. They are
prescribed as diagrams 1028.2, 1028.3, 1028.4,
1032 and 1033. Details are shown in table 20-1.
Where the bay to diagram 1028.2 is allocated to
different users at different times, a special direction
should be sought from the Department to use no
legend (see para 2.1).

either at the road edge or in the centre of the road

and may be extended to any length to accord with
the traffic order. The legend should be repeated at
intervals of about 12 m and marked on both sides
when used in the centre of the road. Where stopping
by other vehicles is prohibited, the sign to diagram
650.1 is used together with the yellow prohibitory
line from diagram 1025.1 (see para 17.20). Otherwise
the prohibition of waiting sign to diagram 650.2 is
used. In both cases a traffic regulation order is
required.

20.12 The marking to diagram 1028.2 (figure 20-2)

forms a single continuous bay with the legend TAXIS,
AMBULANCES or POLICE as appropriate, marked
outside the bay. The marking is coloured yellow (in
Northern Ireland this may be varied to white). It is laid

20.13 The marking to diagram 1028.3 (see

figure 20-3) forms a wide bay, designed for use by
vehicles displaying a disabled person's badge, by
buses or by large vehicles. It is accompanied by the
upright sign to diagram 639.1B, 660 (varied to

600
max

600 min
1500 max

600 min
900 max
600

600

600

600

600

600

Edge of carriageway

350 min 700 max

350 min 700 max

50 min
150 max

50 min
150 max
50
(75)
(100)

600 min
2400 max

1800 min
2700 max

50
(75)
(100)

1800 min
2700 max
Diagram 1028.2
Figure 20-2

118

600 min
2400 max

WAITING RESTRICTIONS

Large or slow vehicles only), 660.4 (Loading

only), 661A (Disabled badge holders only), 661.1,
786 (PARK HERE AND USE PHONE AT CROSSING),
801 (when used with 804.1), or 969. The bay is white
in colour and may be accompanied by the legend
BUSES, DISABLED, LARGE OR SLOW VEHICLES ONLY
or LOADING ONLY, marked outside the bay. It may
be placed at the road edge or in the centre of the
road. When marking a space for disabled users, the
word DISABLED may be omitted, e.g. in streets with
block paving, although use of the legend will help
badge holders identify parking places more easily. It
is recommended that all disabled bays in a locality
are treated in the same way to avoid confusion. The
bay may be extended to any length to accord with

the traffic order. The legend should be repeated at

intervals of about 12 m and marked on both sides
when used in the centre of the road. If the road is too
narrow to permit traffic (especially fire engines) to
pass a 2700 mm wide DISABLED bay, the bay width
may be reduced, subject to an absolute minimum of
1800 mm. When the width is 2700 mm or less, the
transverse marking will be as in diagram 1028.4.
20.14 The LARGE OR SLOW VEHICLES ONLY variant
of diagram 1028.3 may be used with the sign to
diagram 660, similarly varied, at level crossings where
drivers are required to stop and telephone before
crossing. It may also be used to designate places for
large vehicles awaiting police escort.

300 min
600 max
600 max

600 min
1200 max

600 600
600

600

600

Edge of carriageway

50 min
150 max

600 min
1200 max
600

600

50 min
150 max

600

600
6600
min

600 min
2400 max

600 min
2400 max

350 min 700 max

350 min 700 max

50
(75)
(100)

50
(75)
(100)

2700 min
3600 max

3000 min
4200 max
Diagram 1028.3
Figure 20-3

119

6600
min

WAITING RESTRICTIONS

20.15 The marking to diagram 1028.4 (figure 20-4)

indicates a designated parking place used for limited
waiting, for permit holders, for a particular class of
vehicle, or for payment parking. It forms a single bay
coloured white and may be placed at the edge or in
the centre of the road. Where provided for in the
order, it may be laid partly or wholly on the footway
(see para 20.23) and extended to any length. The
legend DOCTOR may be omitted or varied to SOLO
MOTORCYCLES ONLY, SOLO M / CYCLES ONLY,
SOLO M / CS ONLY or PERMIT HOLDERS ONLY, and
should be repeated at intervals of about 12 m.

The words DOCTOR, DISABLED or LOADING ONLY

may be added in the manner shown in diagram
1028.4 (figure 20-4). The marking was originally for
use only when charges were made for parking.
However, it may now also be used to mark individual
bays for free limited waiting. Where charges are
discontinued, it will therefore no longer be necessary
to change the bay markings.
20.17 The angled bays indicated in diagram 1033
(figure 20-6) may be used both where charges are
made (i.e. pay and display, meter, permit, voucher or
disc parking) and where parking is free. The angle
between the markings and the carriageway edge may
be varied to suit the available road width. When not
at right angles, the bays should be angled so that
drivers are required to reverse into them. This is safer
than reversing out, when visibility might be restricted
by adjacent parked vehicles.

20.16 The marking to diagram 1032 (figure 20-5) is

used to divide a length of road into individual
parking places, each end of a series of parking places
being marked as a double line. The dividing marks
between two adjacent spaces may be omitted to form
a single long bay with a maximum length of 13.2 m.

600
max

600 min
1500 max

600 min
900 max
600

600

600

600

600

600

Edge of carriageway

350 min 700 max

350 min 700 max

50 min
150 max
50
(75)
(100)

600 min
2400 max

1800 min
2700 max

50 min
150 max
50
(75)
(100)

1800 min
2700 max
Diagram 1028.4
Figure 20-4

120

600 min
2400 max

WAITING RESTRICTIONS

20.18 One or more of the angled parking places may

be reserved for the use of disabled badge holders.
Each such bay is then widened to 3.6 m; the legend
DISABLED may be added to each bay to help identify
it. Standard width bays may indicate DOCTOR. The
limit of the row of parking bays must be marked with
the double terminal mark shown in diagram 1033;
this is omitted where the limit is delineated by a
raised kerb. The extended marks shown alongside the
DISABLED legend are used to mark the limits of the
DISABLED bay (or DOCTOR when so marked).

MARKING OF BAYS
20.19 The normal width of the lines outlining
parking bays is 50 mm. This may be varied to 75 mm
for greater emphasis or to reduce maintenance, or to
100 mm to accommodate the use of paving blocks in
block-paved areas. Any legend should be marked
outside the bay and with the correct orientation to be
read by a passing driver (see figure 20-7). The
transverse line may be omitted where the marking is
placed in a layby or where the end of the bay is
delineated by a raised kerb (see figure 20-7).

50 (75) (100)
1800 min
2700 max

100

Edge of carriageway
50
(75)
(100)

50 (75) (100)
550
4500 min
6600 max

1150

600

600 max
600

600 min
900 max

600
Diagram 1032
Figure 20-5

600
max

Edge of carriageway
variable
angle

0
10

50 )
(75 0)
(10

n
mi
0
60
0
60

in
0m
0
42

in
0m
0
42

x
ma
0
90

50 )
(75 0)
(10
0
60

350
50 min
150 max

n
mi ax
0
0
20 00 m
25

00
36

Diagram 1033
Figure 20-6

121

600

600

WAITING RESTRICTIONS

20.20 A bay laid adjacent to the road edge should

be designed so that neither it nor the associated
legend overlaps the centre line road marking. A
centre line should not be interrupted alongside bay
markings. If conditions allow, it may be moved away
from the geometric centre of the carriageway to
permit traffic to pass a row of parked vehicles without
crossing the centre line. Lane lines should not be
interrupted but may also be realigned if practicable.

and direction 22(3)(a)) the yellow line to diagram

1017 is omitted. Kerb marks are still required if
loading is prohibited outside these times.
20.26 Where waiting is prohibited at certain times
(e.g. peak hours) and limited waiting, or waiting by
specified classes of user, permitted at other times, a
white bay marking (diagram 1028.3, 1028.4, 1032 or
1033 as appropriate) should be used with a single
yellow line to diagram 1017 continued through the
bay. Where loading is prohibited, the kerb markings
to diagram 1019 or 1020.1 must also be used. An
upright sign to diagram 639.1B should be provided.
The bottom parts of the sign may be varied to
diagrams 660, 660.3, 660.4, 660.5, 661A, 661.2A,
661.3A or 662 if appropriate.

20.21 If adjacent bays for different uses would be of

different widths, the greatest width should be
adopted for all (where permitted by the Regulations)
to avoid a potentially confusing stepped edge.
20.22 Where a taxi bay (diagram 1028.2) is sited
next to a bay coloured white, it will be necessary to
use the single yellow terminal line and the white
terminal line (double white if the white bay is
diagram 1032). There should be a gap of 100 mm
between the two markings. However, when
changing between 1028.3, 1028.4 and 1032, the
transverse white line (or one such line of diagram
1032) should be treated as common to both
markings if they are identical in size and colour (see
figure 20-7 for examples).

20.27 If the upper part of diagram 639.1B is varied

to diagram 650.2 (no waiting except taxis or other
designated vehicles), the white bay marking
appropriate to the lower panel is used. The yellow
bay marking to diagram 1028.2 normally associated
with diagram 650.2 cannot be used in these
circumstances, so the presence of the waiting
restrictions shown in the upper part of the sign is
indicated with a single yellow line to diagram 1017.

20.23 Where a bay is laid partly on the footway and

partly on the carriageway, it should be to the pattern
shown in the right hand diagram in figure 20-4.
Where a bay is marked wholly on the footway, it
should be the reverse of the pattern shown in the left
hand diagram in figure 20-4 and adjacent to the
kerb. Any legend should be laid only on the
carriageway side of the marking (see figure 20-7).

20.28 Yellow waiting or loading restriction markings

are discontinued through markings to diagrams
1025.1, 1025.3, 1025.4 and 1028.2 (when used with
diagram 650.1), as they already incorporate a
continuous yellow edge line, (see direction 22(3)(a)).

CONTROLLED PARKING ZONE

20.29 This category includes meter, disc, ticket,
pay and display and voucher parking, and any
combination of these. Yellow lines (diagram 1017
or 1018.1) and, if appropriate, kerb marks (diagram
1019 or 1020.1) must be laid throughout the zone,
other than at parking places (or bus stop clearways or
mandatory school entrance markings which apply
throughout the zone hours). Parking places must be
marked with white bay road markings (diagrams
1028.3, 1028.4, 1032 or 1033). Vertical signs in the
zone are required only if restrictions differ from the
terminal sign.

SHARED AND PART TIME BAYS

20.24 It is sometimes necessary for bays to be
available for two or more different uses at different
times of the day, or for bays to be used for parts of
the day only. Guidance on this is given below.
20.25 If waiting (or loading) restrictions apply at
times when the marking to diagram 1028.2 is not
operating, the normal yellow lines or kerb marks
should be used in addition to the bay marking. When
the no stopping variant is used (see para 20.12

122

WAITING RESTRICTIONS

Diagram
1028.4
(partly on
footway)

Diagram
1032

Shared
transverse
marking for
diagrams
1028.3
and 1032

Direction of travel

Diagram
1028.3
(transverse
marking
omitted at
beginnning
of lay-by)

Diagram
1028.3
(1800 wide)
(see para
20.13)

Shared
transverse
marking for
diagrams
1028.3 and
1028.4

Diagram
1028.3
(transverse
marking
omitted at
end of lay-by)

Diagram
1028.4

Diagram
1028.4
(with traffic
islands to
protect
parking place
and provide
location for
vertical signs)

Separate
transverse
markings
(different
colours)
Diagram
1028.2
Figure 12-1

Figure 20-7

123

Diagram
1028.4
(wholly on
footway)

WAITING RESTRICTIONS

PEDESTRIAN ZONE

RESTRICTED ZONE

20.30 Yellow lines (and kerb marks) must be used

unless the conditions in direction 24(4) are met (see
para 20.31) or a special direction has been issued to
omit them (see para 20.32). Parking or loading bays
are not normally provided, but see para 20.32(iii).

20.33 Restricted zones generally use vertical signs to

restrict parking, with no yellow line markings. They
are signed using a specially authorised variant of
diagram 663 with the legend Restricted ZONE and
the words Except in signed bays added where
appropriate. White bay markings (diagrams 1028.3 or
1028.4) or yellow bus stop or taxi markings (diagrams
1025.1, 1025.3, 1025.4 or 1028.2) will be used if
required. They need not be used if the bays are
physically delineated by kerbs, bollards, planters or
other street furniture.

20.31 The conditions under which direction 24(4)

permits the omission of yellow lines and kerb
markings are where:
(i)

the entry of vehicles is restricted at the

same time as the waiting restrictions
apply,

LORRY AND BUS PARKING BAN ZONE

(ii) the footway and carriageway are not
separately defined (i.e. the whole road
width is paved over without change of
level or material), and

20.34 Where it is desired to ban parking by large

vehicles for part of the day in residential areas, lorry
or bus parking ban zones may be introduced. Such
zones are effected using upright signs to diagrams
640.2A and 665, without the use of road markings.

(iii) the waiting restrictions apply uniformly

throughout the zone.

CYCLE AND BUS LANES

20.32 It may be possible to issue a special direction

(see para 2.1) to allow yellow lines and kerb marks to
be omitted in other circumstances, for example:
(i)

20.35 The use of yellow lines in cycle lanes is dealt

with in para 16.7, and in bus lanes in para 17.11.

where the road surface is not paved but

vehicles are not likely to be parked outside
the times at which vehicle entry is
restricted,

(ii) where the road surface is at one level, but

different colours or textures of surfacing
are used to distinguish the carriageway
from the footway, and the other
requirements of direction 24(4) are met, or
(iii) where parking and loading bays, bus stops
or taxi ranks are provided within the zone,
but waiting restrictions are otherwise
uniform. The bays will need standard
markings, or to be delineated by bollards,
planters or other street furniture.

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21 TRAFFIC CALMING
INTRODUCTION

21.5 The marking may be used where a speed limit

changes, or as a repeater in conjunction with upright
signing. On roads where there is a 20 mph speed
limit, elongated roundels may be used in conjunction
with the vertical 20 mph repeaters. Neither signs nor
road markings may be used as repeaters to indicate a
30 mph speed limit on roads with street lighting.

21.1 This section is not intended to be a detailed

description of traffic calming techniques, but a guide
to the markings used with such schemes.
21.2 Advice on marking the following is given in the
paragraphs indicated:
(i)

speed limit roundels (paras 21.4to 21.6),

(ii)

road humps (paras 21.7 to 21.12),

(iii) speed cushions (paras 21.13 to 21.15),

(iv) thumps (para 21.16),

4300
(v)

1600

humped crossings (para 21.17),

(vi) build-outs (paras 21.18 to 21.21),

(vii) chicanes and pinch points (paras 21.22
to 21.25), and

1500

(viii) gateways (paras 21.26 to 21.28).

Guidance on the warning signs provided for road
humps can be found in Chapter 4.
21.3 In 20 mph zones signed with diagram 674, road
markings are not required on road humps, speed
cushions or thumps; however they may be used if the
traffic authority considers them appropriate. Hump
markings are always required where a 20 mph speed
limit is signed using diagram 670.

7500

2800

SPEED LIMIT ROUNDEL

21.4 An indication of the speed limit may be placed
on the carriageway using the marking prescribed in
diagram 1065. The marking is varied to show the
speed limit in force and elongated in the direction of
travel to compensate for the foreshortening effect
(see figure 21-1). It must not be used in association
with an advisory speed limit.

1500

Diagram 1065
Figure 21-1

125

TRAFFIC CALMING

21.6 The larger marking is used at the start of a

speed limit if approaching traffic is subject to a limit
higher than 40 mph, otherwise the smaller size is
used. The size of repeater markings should be
appropriate to the speed indicated, with the smaller
roundel being used where the limit is 40 mph or less.

On flat-topped humps, the triangle marking should

extend for the length of the ramp, if this is less than
1850 mm. Two triangular marks should be used in
each lane; in one-way roads they should be placed
only on the approach side of a road hump.
21.10 At a hump that is 5 m or more in width, unless
at a Zebra or signalled crossing (see also para 21.17),
the top of the hump must be marked with a line to
diagram 1004 (see paras 4.12 to 4.26). This should
be used on the approach to as well as over a hump,
to separate the opposing flows of traffic in a two-way
road. Where more than one lane is available to traffic
proceeding in the same direction in either a one-way
or a two-way road, the lanes should be separated by
the marking to diagram 1004, and two triangular
markings to diagram 1062 should be used in each
lane. Care should be taken to ensure that it is evident
which line marks the division between opposing
streams of traffic, e.g. by widening the centre line
marking to 150 mm.

MARKINGS ON ROAD HUMPS

21.7 The 2002 Regulations changed the way that
road hump markings are prescribed. Diagrams 1060,
1060.1, 1061 and 1061.1 in the 1994 Regulations
were replaced by the triangular marking to
diagram 1062 (see figure 21-2). Other prescribed
markings are used on humps as required.

Direction
of travel

1850
max

750

21.11 Where a road hump has tapered ends which

terminate within 300 mm of the kerb, edge line
markings to diagram 1012.1 (see paras 4.31 to 4.38)
or yellow lines to diagram 1017 or 1018.1 must be
used, deflected over the hump to guide vehicles away
from the taper (direction 18(1)). These should
normally extend at least 6 m beyond the hump.

Edge
of hump

21.12 In some cases it might prove helpful to

provide a cycle lane bypass between the kerb and the
taper of a road hump. Where possible this should be
in the form of a mandatory cycle lane, so that other
vehicles do not enter the area. The width of the cycle
lane should be between 750 mm and 1000 mm.

Diagram 1062
Figure 21-2

21.8 Road hump profiles will generally be either

round or flat-topped with ramps. Figure 21-3a shows
a typical layout of markings on a round hump, and
figure 21-3b on a road hump with tapered ends.
Figure 21-3c indicates the markings used on flattopped humps. Tapered ends are not used at flattopped humps provided to help pedestrians cross the
road (see para 21.17 for guidance on locating
pedestrian crossings on road humps).

MARKINGS ON SPEED CUSHIONS

21.13 A speed cushion is a form of road hump
occupying only part of the traffic lane in which it is
installed (see figure 21-3d).
21.14 A single triangular marking to diagram 1062
should be used on the approach ramp of each
cushion. Where vehicles from both directions might
be driven over the same cushion, the triangular
marking should be used on both approach ramps.

21.9 The triangular marking to diagram 1062 is used

on the approach side of a hump. It should extend
from the edge of the hump to the highest point (or
for a maximum distance of 1850 mm if this is less).

126

TRAFFIC CALMING

Diagram 1012.1, 1017

or 1018.1 must be used

Optional

Figure 21-3a

Figure 21-3b

Optional

Optional

Figure 21-3c

Figure 21-3d

127

TRAFFIC CALMING

Figure 21-4a

Figure 21-4b

128

TRAFFIC CALMING

21.15 There is no marking prescribed for delineating

the edges of a speed cushion as a warning to
pedestrians. It is recommended that cushions be
constructed in material which contrasts with the
road surface. If a cushion is placed in the centre of a
carriageway and may be approached by vehicles from
either direction, hatched markings to diagram 1040
or 1040.2 may be used on both approaches.

there is parking immediately preceding the taper, the

markings described in para 21.20 may be used. An
edge line to diagram 1012.1 may be added. Any
yellow waiting restriction lines should follow the line
of the kerbs around the build-out and not be stopped
either side of a chicane or pinch point.
21.19 If it is intended to assign priority to traffic from
one direction, Give Way and triangular markings
(diagrams 1003 and 1023) may be provided,
supplemented if required by signs to diagrams 615
with 615.1 and 811 with 811.1 (see also para 3.24).
Note that it is not lawful to require traffic from both
directions to give way. The build-out is normally used
on the side of the carriageway leading into a trafficcalmed section and priority given to vehicles
travelling in the opposite direction. The Railway
Inspectorate should be consulted at an early stage
if such an installation is planned near a level crossing.

MARKINGS ON THUMPS
21.16 A thump is a road hump which is between
900 and 1500 mm long (in the direction of travel).
No markings are necessary if it is constructed from
yellow reflective material. Where non-reflective
material is used, it should not be coloured yellow, but
should normally incorporate four (with a minimum of
two) markings to diagram 1062 on each side of the
thump in line with the approach lane. The markings
should extend from the edge to the top of the thump
and, in a one-way road, they should be applied
across the full width of the carriageway. Edge of
carriageway markings may be continued over the
thump if desired.

21.20 A series of build-outs along one side of a road

can be used to provide sheltered parking places.
Projecting the build-out beyond parked cars also
enables pedestrians waiting to cross to see and be
seen. Diagram 1010 should be used to delineate the
edge of the carriageway available for through traffic
unless the parking is controlled by a traffic regulation
order, in which case the appropriate bay marking is
used (see paras 20.11 to 20.28).

HUMPED CROSSINGS
21.17 Pelican, Zebra, Puffin and Toucan crossings
may be placed on flat-topped kerb-to-kerb humps
(see figure 21-4). Humps may extend into the
controlled areas, but the crossing must remain
centred upon the hump. The detailed regulatory
requirements are set out in regulation 4 of the
Highways (Road Humps) Regulations 1999.

21.21 If a gap is provided for cycles, it should be

marked with the cycle symbol, diagram 1057, and
the appropriate vertical sign. Such a gap may,
however, inconvenience pedestrians using the buildout as a crossing place.

CHICANES AND PINCH POINTS

BUILD-OUTS
21.22 A chicane is a narrowing of the carriageway
formed by locating build-outs alternately on each
side of the road. Pinch points are formed by the
construction of build-outs opposite one another; they
may be useful at crossing places, whether controlled
or not, to reduce the width of carriageway to be
crossed. The approaches to chicanes and pinch points
should be marked using diagram 1040.4 with the
tapers specified in table 14-1.

21.18 A build-out is a feature that extends into the

carriageway on one side of the road only. It may be
constructed integrally with the footway, or a gap
may be left for drainage, or for cyclists where it
is considered that they would be at risk of being
squeezed by passing vehicles. The approach to a
build-out should normally be marked using diagram
1040.4, with the taper specified in table 14-1. Where

129

TRAFFIC CALMING

21.23 A centre line road marking to diagram 1004

should not normally be used between the build-outs
of a chicane or pinch point unless the width of each
traffic lane so formed would be 3 m or more.
21.24 Any yellow waiting restriction lines should
follow the line of the kerb around the build-out (see
para 21.18).
21.25 Chicanes are not normally appropriate places
for pedestrians to cross the road as the attention of
drivers is likely to be concentrated on negotiating the
features. Pedestrians should not therefore be
encouraged to cross at such locations, whether by the
installation of formal crossings or dropped kerbs. If,
however, pedestrians are likely to cross at a chicane,
the design should ensure that they can be seen
clearly and that they can cross the road safely.

GATEWAYS
21.26 Gateways can be provided to indicate places
where the road changes in character, e.g. where a
rural road enters a town or village. They must not
prevent the passage of any vehicle unless there is an
appropriate traffic regulation order.
21.27 Edge lines and hatched markings can be used
to make the carriageway appear narrower than it is,
whilst still allowing larger vehicles to overrun these
areas if necessary. The effect will be increased if a
central refuge island is provided together with
hatched markings, but care must be taken not to
increase hazards to cyclists. In rural areas, the width
of some farm vehicles needs to be considered and
care should be taken not to prevent these or other
wide vehicles from passing. If there is insufficient
space to accommodate a physical island, a ghost
island formed by markings alone can be helpful.
21.28 Edge lines and hatched markings should taper
in accordance with table 14-1.

130

22 WORDED AND DIAGRAMMATIC MARKINGS

GENERAL
22.1 This section contains guidance on the use of
the following markings:
(i)

SLOW (paras 22.2 to 22.4),

(1600)
2800

(ii) HIGH VEHICLES (paras 22.5 to 22.10),

(iii) KEEP CLEAR (paras 22.11 to 22.25),
(iv) LOOK LEFT / RIGHT (paras 22.26
to 22.28),
Diagram 1024

(v) NO ENTRY and PLAY STREET (paras 22.29

to 22.33),

Figure 22-1

through proliferation. At particularly hazardous

situations, e.g. on the approach to a bend at the end
of a long straight section of high speed road, the
marking may be repeated to give added emphasis.

(vi) police speed check (paras 22.34

to 22.38), and
(vii) vehicle separation markings (paras 22.39
to 22.44).

HIGH VEHICLE MARKINGS AT ARCH BRIDGES

Guidance on the formation of words, including the

elongation of characters can be found in paras 22.45
to 22.50).

22.5 All bridges with a headroom of less than 16'-6"

should be clearly signed. (Arch bridge signing is dealt
with in Chapter 4, paras 7.16 to 7.19). Road
markings, together with appropriate warning signs,
can be used in the case of arch bridges to guide
higher vehicles to the centre of the road, where the
clearance may be greater than at the outside edges.

SLOW
22.2 The Regulations prescribe in diagram 1024
the word SLOW for use on the carriageway (see
figure 22-1). It is prescribed in two sizes; 1600 mm
intended for use where the speed limit is 40 mph or
less, and 2800 mm where the speed limit is greater
than 40 mph. Two smaller sizes are prescribed as
diagram 1058.1 for use with cycle facilities (see
paras 16.23 and 22.50).

22.6 The HIGH VEHS marking (diagram 1024.1) is

prescribed for use at arch bridges. High vehicles
should be guided through the highest part of the
arch using this marking and the arrow to diagram
1014, together with edge of carriageway markings
to diagram 1010. These should be aligned with the
chord marking on the bridge (diagram 532.2) which
indicates the available headroom in the central part
of the road. The lane or lanes passing under the
bridge, together with edge lines, should be extended
beyond the bridge for approximately 20 m to
encourage long vehicles following the taper of the
edge line to manoeuvre under the highest part of the
structure and run straight until completely clear of it.
In practice, site conditions may prevent the full
lengths of markings being used but it should be the

22.3 Although the marking may be used alone, it is

most effective when it complements a warning sign
so that drivers are told why they need to slow down.
The marking may be used with advance signs giving
warning of STOP and GIVE WAY but not to
supplement the GIVE WAY sign itself, for which the
triangle marking to diagram 1023 is prescribed.
22.4 Discretion should be exercised in the use of the
marking to ensure that its impact is not reduced

131

WORDED AND DIAGRAMMATIC MARKINGS

Face of arch bridge

Approximately 20 m parallel section

on each side of the road to permit
long vehicles to maintain a straight
passage under the bridge.
Diagram 1010 markings aligned
with chord markings on bridge
(diagram 532.2)

Centre line should be omitted where:

1. A double white line system is
provided and high vehicles would
necessarily have to cross a continuous
line to pass under the bridge, or
2. The overall width of road under
the bridge is too narrow to permit
two-way flow for vehicles with a
height equal to the signed limit.

NOTE: Site conditions and

the proximity of junctions
may require variations to
the length of tapers and
the parallel section of
diagram 1010 marking

Exit taper 1 in 20 approx

Diagram 1010

Taper
(see table 22-1)

4500
(6000)

1000 (1750)
1600
(2800)

Diagram 1014

1000 (1750)
Diagram 1024.1

1600
(2800)

Figure 22-2

132

WORDED AND DIAGRAMMATIC MARKINGS

Table 22-1 Details of HIGH VEHS marking

Speed limit
(mph)

Width of
diagram 1010
marking

Taper of
diagram 1010
marking

Length
of arrow
(mm)

Size of
HIGH VEHS
marking

Gap between
legend / legend
or legend /arrow

40 or less
50 to 60

100
150

1 in 40
1 in 50

4500
6000

1600
2800

1000
1750

aim to provide as nearly as possible the full length

indicated in figure 22-2. Where the carriageway is
sufficiently wide to permit two-way flow of low
vehicles, the centre line should be continued through
the bridge as a warning line; if there is insufficient
width the line should be discontinued.

(i)

diagram 1026, to allow the passage

of vehicles into or out of a side road or
access (see paras 22.12 to 22.14 and
figure 22-3),

(ii) diagram 1026.1, to keep accesses and

dropped kerbs clear (see paras 22.15
to 22.18 and figure 22-4), and

22.7 The area between the edge lines and the edge
of carriageway must not be filled in with hatched
lines. If all vehicles are required to adopt the centre
path route, hatched markings to diagram 1040.4
should be used in place of diagram 1010.

(iii) diagram 1027.1, to keep clear the access

to a school, hospital or fire, police or
ambulance station (see paras 22.19 to
22.25 and figure 22-5).

22.8 If high vehicles are guided to the middle of a

road on which a double white line system is in use,
the double white lines must be discontinued under
the bridge and replaced by a warning line, so that
drivers of high vehicles do not commit an offence by
crossing the marking to gain access to the highest
part of the bridge.
22.9 A priority system using Give Way lines to
diagram 1003 or shuttle working signals may be
used, in which case the carriageway may be reduced
to a single lane under the bridge. In addition to
guiding high vehicles through the highest point of
the arch and thereby reducing the risk of bridge
strikes, this may also permit the provision of a new
footway or the widening of an existing one under the
bridge.

1600
(2800)

1000 min
4000 max

1600
(2800)

22.10 Details of the size and layout of the markings

are shown in table 22-1.

2550
100
(150)

KEEP CLEAR MARKINGS

22.11 Keep clear markings to indicate areas of the
carriageway that should be kept clear of stationary
vehicles are prescribed in three forms:

Diagram 1026
Figure 22-3

133

WORDED AND DIAGRAMMATIC MARKINGS

22.12 The advisory marking to diagram 1026 (see

figure 22-3) is used mainly in urban areas where a
queue of vehicles waiting at one junction blocks back
across another, thereby obstructing the flow of cross
traffic. It may also be used at a private entrance used
by the general public, but only in places where it can
genuinely be helpful in maintaining smooth traffic
flow. It is not intended to keep areas of carriageway
outside premises clear of parked vehicles.

150 150

500 min
1000 max

22.13 The marking is prescribed in two sizes, the

larger for use at particularly wide junctions or on
multi-lane approaches. It is always coloured white.

(50)
75
(100)

22.14 The Regulations prescribe transverse lines to

indicate the extent of the area to be kept clear of
queuing vehicles where this is not obvious. They may
be omitted if considered unnecessary, or if proximity
to other markings or to traffic signals might cause
confusion. Lines longer than prescribed must not be
used; this can give the impression to side road traffic
that vehicles on the main road are required to stop.

(50)
75
(100)
Diagram 1026.1
Figure 22-4

22.15 The marking to diagram 1026.1 (see

figure 22-4) may be laid on part of the carriageway
which should be kept clear of parked vehicles either
outside an entrance to off-street premises, or where
the kerb is dropped to provide a convenient crossing
place for pedestrians.

lines would however prevent residents from parking

across their own driveways. The marking may also be
used across a private entrance where there is a single
yellow line, to keep the entrance clear at times when
the restrictions are not in force; it should be laid on
the carriageway side of the yellow line.

22.16 It should normally be laid 75 mm wide for

speed limits up to 40 mph and 100 mm when the
limit is higher. The 50 mm size may be used in
environmentally sensitive areas.

22.18 Where two or more closely spaced driveways

are to be protected, it will be necessary to consider
the distance between the markings to ensure it will
accommodate at least one vehicle. An excessively
long marking, or over-provision of markings will
bring them into disrepute and compromise their
effectiveness. The marking should not extend more
than 1 m either side of the dropped kerb.

22.17 The marking is not legally enforceable.

However, if used sparingly it may be helpful in
discouraging inconsiderate parking, particularly
where a problem is isolated and a traffic regulation
order could not be justified or easily enforced. It may
be used to mark the gaps across driveways between
the ends of separate bays, except in controlled
parking zones where every length of road outside the
parking places must be marked with a yellow line
(see para 20.29). This should reduce the risk of
obstruction by non-residents, whilst avoiding the
upright signs needed at each gap if a single yellow
line were used instead (although signs would not be
needed if double yellow lines were used). Yellow

22.19 The KEEP CLEAR marking to diagram 1027.1

(see figure 22-5) is prescribed for use outside schools.
This includes nurseries and playgroups, but where
these occupy buildings other than schools, e.g.
church or village halls, the word SCHOOL may be
varied to CHILDREN. SCHOOL must be omitted
when the marking is used at fire, police or ambulance
stations, or outside hospitals; these words must not
however be used as part of the marking.

134

WORDED AND DIAGRAMMATIC MARKINGS

22.20 The overall length of the marking (using the

word SCHOOL) must not be less than 25.56 m nor
more than 43.56 m. When the word SCHOOL is
replaced by CHILDREN, the maximum may be
increased to 44.545 m. When the word SCHOOL
and the short longitudinal line following it are
omitted, two additional 3 m zig-zag modules are
used symmetrically to give a minimum length of
marking of 25.25 m. The overall length may be
increased in increments of 6 m by the addition of a
complete zig-zag module on each side up to the
appropriate maximum. Further details may be found
on the working drawing (see para 1.17).

90

150

700

Edge of carriageway

22.21 The length of marking needs to be restricted

to one which drivers will respect. Where an authority
needs to mark a length greater than the maximum
of 43.56 m, e.g. where the school is in a cul-de-sac or
the marking is to extend across two entrances which
are some distance apart, then two markings, varied in
length if necessary (see para 22.20), may be used;
they should be separated by a nominal gap
of 100 mm. This will ensure that the legend is
repeated at adequate intervals. When the marking is
mandatory (see para 22.24) upright signs will be
needed with each separate marking.

25560 min
43560 max

22.22 Where a larger gap would be safe, allowing at

least 7 m between the two markings would provide a
place for setting down children on their way to
school. However, this might also encourage further
vehicles to stop behind the first, and undermine
compliance with the KEEP CLEAR marking.

3000

45
22.23 The markings should not normally be placed
on both sides of the road, but only on the side on
which the entrance is situated. However, conditions
may sometimes require otherwise, e.g. where there
are school entrances on both sides of the road, or the
road is so narrow that not to prevent parking on the
opposite side to the school entrance is considered
hazardous, or a patrol operates at that point.

Diagram 1027.1
Figure 22-5

22.25 When the mandatory marking is used on a

road where waiting restrictions apply, the yellow
lines to diagram 1017 or 1018.1 are needed only
if a restriction on the same length of road applies
at times other than those covered by the stopping
prohibition. If the KEEP CLEAR marking is advisory,
yellow lines will always be needed if a waiting
restriction is in force. The lines will be positioned

22.24 The KEEP CLEAR marking is legally

enforceable only when used in conjunction with an
upright sign to diagram 642.2A and backed by a
traffic regulation order. However, without regular
enforcement action, the mandatory version is unlikely
to be any better respected than the advisory marking.

135

WORDED AND DIAGRAMMATIC MARKINGS

between the KEEP CLEAR marking and the kerb.

Similar rules apply to the use of no loading marks
on the kerbs. In a controlled parking zone, yellow
lines will always be required whether or not the KEEP
CLEAR marking is mandatory.

22.28 One size of marking is prescribed, being

280 mm in height using the non-elongated alphabet
in Schedule 13 Part VI to the Regulations. It should
be laid at a minimum distance of 150 mm from the
edge of the carriageway. It should not replace or be
superimposed upon a yellow line marking. The arrow
is an integral part of the marking and must not be
omitted.

LOOK LEFT / LOOK RIGHT

22.26 These markings are prescribed in
diagram 1029 and illustrated in figure 22-6. They
may be used at any point where pedestrians cross
traffic approaching from an unexpected direction.
This would include for example a pedestrian refuge
in a one-way street, a channelising island where
traffic in one direction passes on both sides, and
places where pedestrians cross a contra-flow bus
lane. They may also be used at Zebra, Pelican, Puffin
or Toucan crossings and anywhere else it is
considered that pedestrians need to be reminded
of the direction of traffic flow.

NO ENTRY AND PLAY STREET

22.29 The NO ENTRY marking to diagram 1046
is generally used to supplement upright signs to
diagram 616 (no entry for vehicular traffic). Except as
specified in direction 7(3), these may be used only to
indicate the effect of an Act, order, regulation,
byelaw or notice. There are certain circumstances in
which the marking may be used without upright
signs, or without an order, but only at a site which
has been approved in writing by the Secretary of
State. Such approval will be given only where it is
proposed to use the marking for safety reasons in
circumstances where this would not prohibit an
otherwise permitted movement. Further guidance
can be found in para 22.32 and in Chapter 3.

22.27 The marking must never be used in a two-way

street unless there is a central pedestrian refuge, or
pedestrians will be misled into looking in the wrong
direction once half way across.

22.30 Two patterns are prescribed in each of two

sizes (see figure 22-7). The larger size (2800 mm) is for
use at wide junctions. The marking may occupy one
line or two, depending upon the space available.

Edge of carriageway

22.31 Circumstances in which the marking might

be helpful in supplementing upright No Entry signs
which are supported by a traffic order include
junctions where:

Refuge

(i)

Direction of one-way traffic

the ahead movement is prohibited. The

marking should be placed on the main
carriageway side of the Give Way or Stop
line opposite,

(ii) it may be difficult to see the upright signs,

e.g. because of obscuration by stationary
vehicles. The supplementary carriageway
markings should help alert drivers before
they become committed to the manoeuvre,

280
Edge of carriageway

Diagram 1029
Figure 22-6

136

WORDED AND DIAGRAMMATIC MARKINGS

(iii) a single upright No Entry sign has been

used, in accordance with direction 8,
because the road is less than 5 m wide.

(ii) to reduce the risk of traffic going the

wrong way along a dual carriageway road
or a slip road.

Marking NO ENTRY on the carriageway should help

to reduce the risk of inadvertent non-compliance.

22.33 The marking may be varied to PLAY STREET

and used with the upright signs to diagrams 617
and 618 at the start of a street where an appropriate
traffic regulation order has been made.

22.32 Purposes for which the marking might be

used, either alone or to supplement No Entry signs,
provided that the Secretary of State has given written
approval to use the signs or markings in the absence
of any statutory provision include:
(i)

POLICE SPEED CHECK MARKINGS

22.34 A standardised form of marking is prescribed
as diagram 1063, in the shape of a square or circle
(see figure 22-8). The square is preferred to the circle
as it is less likely to be mistaken for a discarded hub
cap etc. The maximum side length or diameter is
prescribed as 600 mm.

to prevent drivers taking the incorrect route

past channelising traffic islands, e.g.
when turning right at a side road junction.
This procedure must not be used to
prohibit completely the right turn at the
junction. If this is necessary, a traffic
regulation order must be made, and

22.35 The markings indicate the beginning and end

of a measured distance over which the police can
check vehicle speeds. The use of roadside features
such as hazard markers or marks on safety barriers
can lead to parallax problems. Markings on the
carriageway can allow more accurate measurement,
particularly from raised vantage points.

1600
(2800)

600 dia
max

1600
(2800)

Equal

1000
(1750)

Equal
1600
(2800)

600 max
Diagram 1046

Diagram 1063

Figure 22-7

Figure 22-8

137

WORDED AND DIAGRAMMATIC MARKINGS

22.36 The marking may be placed on the

carriageway only at the request of the police and may
be used in as many lanes as required. In order to
reduce maintenance costs it should be sited in the
middle of the lane.

hour flow encountered during trials was 4000

vehicles per hour. Caution should therefore be
exercised when considering the use of chevrons at
sites with higher flow levels.
22.42 The marking consists of a series of chevrons,
marked in all lanes at the same 40 metre spacing, as
indicated in figure 22-9. They should be laid over a
distance of about 4 km, although this may be varied
to between 3 km and 6 km.

22.37 Other markings may be used in association

with speed cameras, at the highway authority's
discretion. They enable the distance a vehicle has
moved in the time interval between two photographs
to be measured and hence the speed calculated.
Such markings are not considered to be traffic signs
and are not prescribed in the Regulations.

22.43 The distance between successive series of

chevrons should generally be between 40 km and
55 km. This need not be complied with rigidly, as
specific site criteria are of greater importance. The
start of a series of markings should be at least 1.6 km
from the end of a previous entry slip road and should
terminate at least 3.2 km before the next slip road.
Significant gradients should be avoided. The
Overseeing Department should be consulted if it is
planned to use them on gradients steeper than 3%.

22.38 The markings must not be laid in the

controlled area of pedestrian crossings, or in
positions that will interfere with other prescribed
markings and cause possible confusion.

VEHICLE SEPARATION MARKINGS

22.44 The Regulations require at least one sign to

diagram 2933 Keep apart 2 chevrons to be used
with the marking. However, a minimum of three such
signs should normally be used, spaced at about

22.39 The chevron markings to diagram 1064 (see

figure 22-9) are prescribed for use on motorways
only.
22.40 The marking is intended to remind drivers to
keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front and has
been shown to be beneficial in reducing accidents.
Chevrons are placed at intervals of 40 metres,
ensuring that a safe distance is kept between vehicles
travelling at 70 mph as long as drivers keep a
minimum of two chevrons apart.

3000
1400
Direction
of travel

22.41 The performance of chevrons at very high

levels of traffic flow is not known. It is likely that most
drivers will reduce their spacing (and ignore the
chevrons) as flow levels increase. The average peak

250

NOTE: Drainage gaps may

be provided as appropriate
Diagram 1064

40 metres

40 metres

Direction of travel

Figure 22-9

138

WORDED AND DIAGRAMMATIC MARKINGS

100 m, 1 km and 2 km after the start of the pattern.

These distances may be regarded as approximate so
that advantage may be taken of any existing safety
fences. A sign to diagram 2934 Check your
distance must be provided, and placed about 300 m
before the commencement of the markings, with the
variant Keep your distance about 300 m after they
terminate. These should normally have an x-height of
250 mm on dual two-lane motorways and 300 mm
on dual three or four-lane motorways.

Table 22-3 Elongated legends

Diagram
Number
1022
1024
1024.1
1025.1
1025.3
1025.4
1026
1035
1036.1
1036.2
1037.1
1046
1048
1048.1
1048.2
1048.3
1048.4
1058
1058.1
1065

FORMATION OF WORDS
22.45 The basic characters for worded road markings
are the capital letters, numerals, apostrophe and the
ampersand from the Transport Medium alphabet,
enlarged and where appropriate elongated to two
standard sizes. The alphabets are shown in Part VI of
Schedule 13 to the Regulations.
22.46 To ensure correct letter spacing when forming
a word, the characters are placed on imaginary tiles
which vary in width according to the size of the
character and the tiles butted up to each other to
make the legend. The tile width for each letter is
shown in table 22-2. The distance between the tiles
of separate words (e.g. NO ENTRY when marked on a
single line) is 400 mm, measured to the edge of the
tiles and not to the actual characters.

A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M

544
588
592
616
528
476
620
640
292
372
552
428
736

Table 22-4 Non-elongated legends

Letter Width Letter

(mm)
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z

STOP
SLOW
HIGH VEHS
BUS STOP, BUS STAND
BUS STOP, BUS STAND
BUS STOP, BUS STAND
KEEP CLEAR
Lane destinations
TURN LEFT
AHEAD ONLY
TURN RIGHT
NO ENTRY
BUS LANE
BUS AND (cycle symbol) LANE
TRAM & BUS ONLY
BUS ONLY
BUS AND (cycle symbol) ONLY
END
SLOW
Speed limit

NOTE: Diagrams 1058 and 1058.1 are prescribed in

special sizes and may be used only for cycle facilities.

Table 22-2 Tile widths

Letter Width
(mm)

Legend

672
624
520
632
564
548
436
616
520
732
512
492
476

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
0
'
&
/

Width
(mm)

Diagram
Number

Legend

316
480
508
528
488
504
416
520
512
532
156
504
312

1027.1

SCHOOL / CHILDREN KEEP CLEAR

KEEP CLEAR
TAXIS, POLICE, AMBULANCES
BUSES, DISABLED
LARGE OR SLOW VEHICLES ONLY
LOADING ONLY
DOCTOR
SOLO MOTORCYCLES ONLY
SOLO M / CYCLES ONLY
SOLO M / CS ONLY
PERMIT HOLDERS ONLY
LOOK LEFT, LOOK RIGHT
DISABLED

1028.2
1028.3

1028.4

1029
1033

139

WORDED AND DIAGRAMMATIC MARKINGS

70

70

70

560

350

Tile width
(see table 22-2)
Base character from the Transport Medium
alphabet. Capital letter height is 560 mm
(equivalent x-height of 400 mm). Tile width
is the same as that used on vertical signs.
70

2800

200

1600

SCALE 1:20
Tile width
(see table 22-2)

Tile width
(see table 22-2)

Road markings to Schedule 13 Part IV (a)

of the Regulations (base character elongated
vertically by a factor of 200 / 70)

Road markings to Schedule 13 Part IV (b)

of the Regulations (base character elongated
vertically by a factor of 350 / 70)

Figure 22-10

140

WORDED AND DIAGRAMMATIC MARKINGS

22.47 Worded road markings placed transversely

across the carriageway (see table 22-3) are elongated
in the longitudinal direction, keeping the transverse
dimension unchanged. This makes it easier for a
driver to read the legend. Those not so placed are
listed in table 22-4; these are not elongated.
22.48 Figure 22-10 shows how elongation is
achieved, using the letter A as an example. The
base character is taken from the Transport Medium
alphabet at an x-height of 400 mm and therefore a
capital letter height of 560 mm (see Chapter 7,
para 2.8). The letter is drawn on a grid measuring
70 x 70 mm (i.e. 560 / 8). The 1600 mm size character
is elongated in the ratio of 200 / 70 and the 2800 mm
size in the ratio of 350 / 70.
22.49 To set out an elongated worded marking on
the carriageway, the following method is suggested:
(i)

determine how much of the carriageway

width is available for the word, allowing a
minimum of 300 mm clear at either side,

(ii) decide on the size of the alphabet required

from the appropriate section of this
chapter,
(iii) add up the tile widths from table 22-2 to
determine the overall width of the
marking,
(iv) if this width is less than that calculated at
(i) above, then the word may be positioned
centrally within the width available,
(v) if the width is more than that calculated
at (i) above, then a suitable abbreviation
will need to be considered where
permitted, e.g. for lane destinations.
Prescribed markings such as SLOW must
not be abbreviated.
22.50 Diagrams 1058 (END) and 1058.1 (SLOW) are
for use on cycle facilities and are therefore reduced in
size. The width of the marking (excluding the outside
edge of the first and last tiles) is prescribed in the
Regulations. These markings do not follow the
standard rules for elongation outlined above.

141

23 MATERIALS AND MAINTENANCE

GENERAL

23.8 Paint is best restricted to roads where the

markings are not subject to heavy traffic wear. It is
particularly suitable for edge lining, for yellow
waiting restriction lines and for parking bays as,
being thinner than thermoplastic material, it will not
interfere with drainage. The ease and safety in
handling paint compared to thermoplastic material,
its suitability for laying with motorised equipment
and the material's low initial cost, makes paint an
attractive economic proposition for such applications.

23.1 Road marking materials and road studs are

specified in the appropriate British Standards. These
are generally the English language versions of
standards published by the European Committee for
Standardisation (CEN).

ROAD MARKING MATERIALS

23.2 Road markings are applied using thermoplastic,
cold plastic, preformed material or paint. They may
be laid as permanent markings or as temporary
markings at road works.

EUROPEAN AND BRITISH STANDARDS

23.9 Initial laboratory requirements for materials are
described in BS EN 1790 for preformed markings and
BS EN 1871 for directly laid materials. Requirements
for drop-on materials (glass beads and anti-skid
aggregates) and premix glass beads are dealt with in
BS EN 1423 and 1424 respectively. BS EN 1436
specifies several performance levels for properties
such as retroreflectivity, skid resistance and durability.
Materials will be classified in accordance with the
relevant standard following performance testing. In
the UK, this will normally be on the basis of
laboratory tests to BS EN 1790 or BS EN 1871 as
appropriate, and road trials to BS EN 1824.

23.3 Thermoplastic material is applied hot and sets

on laying. It may be applied by a hand or mechanical
applicator. It has good durability and is suitable for
use on all roads. Mechanical application is most
suitable for use on motorways and other high
standard roads where it can be laid in long runs using
motorised equipment with minimum disruption to
traffic.
23.4 Cold plastics are supplied in single or multicomponent forms. The product is laid on the
carriageway and a cohesive film is formed by
chemical action.

23.6 Preformed cold plastic material is applied to the

road surface using an adhesive.

23.10 The Specification for Highway Works

published by the Stationery Office specifies which
performance classes in BS EN 1436 for luminance
factor, skid resistance and retroreflectivity are to be
used on trunk roads and motorways. As higher
retroreflective performance requires additional glass
beads, which will reduce the skid resistance, it is not
practicable to specify the highest performance class
for both. A judgement will need to be made as to
which property is more important at any particular
location.

23.7 Preformed tape is produced in sheet or roll

form and is either bonded to the road surface or
inlaid. Pressure is applied, but not heat. Preformed
markings have good durability, are of uniform
thickness and do not spread in hot weather or under
the weight of heavy traffic. They can be difficult to
apply to some surface dressings and block paviors.
They are also manufactured in an easily removable
form for use at road works.

23.11 Initial performance requirements for road

studs are described in BS EN 1463-1 and the
specification for road trials in BS EN 1463-2.
The performance levels and classes are listed in
BS EN 1463-1. Minimum performance levels to be
achieved for use on UK roads are prescribed in the
Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions
2002 (direction 57). Guidance on the correct use of
road studs will be found in section 6.

23.5 Preformed thermoplastic road markings are

applied by heating the material until it bonds to the
road surface by melting or fusion. They provide a
simple way to apply arrows, lettering etc. and to
reinstate short lengths of line without the need for
substantial application and support equipment.

142

MATERIALS AND MAINTENANCE

23.12 The following British Standards have been

withdrawn as a result of the introduction of
European standards:

the markings much brighter than they would

otherwise be. Beads are normally premixed into the
material. It is only when some of the material has
worn away to expose the beads that they become
fully effective; to overcome this, glass beads are also
applied to the surface as drop-on material as the
marking is laid. The retroreflection of a marking in
wet conditions can be enhanced by providing a
prominent surface texture. These profiled markings
incorporate a series of near-vertical edges which keep
the glass beads clear of the water film which would
otherwise largely negate the retroreflective property.
BS EN 1436 provides specifiers with several classes of
wet performance. Profiled markings may be either of
the raised rib type prescribed as diagrams 1012.2 and
1012.3, or may consist of an embossed pattern in the
material. Provided this latter type is no thicker than
6 mm overall, it may be applied to any marking. In
the case of raised rib markings, the passage of
wheels also generally produces an acoustic or
vibratory effect (see paras 4.39 to 4.48). Improved
visibility in all weather conditions may also be
achieved by using a wider line where alternatives
are prescribed (see paras 1.13 and 1.14).

BS 3262: Parts 1, 2 and 3: 1989 Hot applied

thermoplastic road marking materials,
BS 6044: 1987 Pavement marking paints,
BS 6088: 1981 Solid glass beads for use with road
marking compounds and for other industrial uses
(those sections relating to glass beads for road
marking materials),
PD 6518: 1987 Prefabricated temporary road marking
materials for use at road works,
BS 7396: 1991 Permanent preformed road markings.
23.13 British Standard BS 7962: 2000 sets out
performance requirements for black masking
materials. It is not planned to replace this with a
European standard.

REFLECTORISATION
Table 23-1 Markings required to be reflectorised
23.14 Road markings fall into two categories, those
which must be illuminated with retroreflecting
material, and those which may be so illuminated
(regulation 31). Table 23-1 lists the diagram numbers
of markings which must be reflectorised.

10011
1001.1
1001.2
1002.1
1003 2
1003.1
1003.3
1003.4
1004
1004.1
1005
1005.1

23.15 It is not usually necessary to reflectorise

waiting restriction lines as they do not normally have
a guidance function. However, reflectorisation may
be advantageous where such lines are used on the
rural outskirts of a town and the road edge is
unkerbed, or where a reflectorised edge of
carriageway marking immediately precedes such
markings. If the yellow lines are reflectorised, any
associated parking bays should be also.

1008
1008.1
1009
1010
1012.1
1012.2
1012.3
1013.1
1013.3
1013.4
1014
1022

1023 2
1024
1024.1
1036.1
1036.2
1037.1
1039
1040
1040.2
1040.3
1040.4
1040.5

1041
1041.1
1042
1042.1
1046
1049 2
1062
1064
1065

NOTES
1. Except when used in conjunction with diagram
1001.3.
2. Except when varied to smallest size for use on a
cycle track.

23.16 Reflectorisation is achieved by adding glass

beads to the markings. These reflect light from
vehicle headlamps back towards the driver, making

143

MATERIALS AND MAINTENANCE

STATUTORY COLOURS

(sub-clause 1212.6). This higher value should be used

for yellow bar markings (see para 11.7) and it would
also be appropriate to use it for other markings which
might pose a hazard to a braking vehicle.

23.17 The colours white and yellow are prescribed

for road marking materials. Black material may also
be used to mask existing markings, where these need
to be temporarily obscured during road works (see
para 23.13).

MAINTENANCE

23.18 The standard colour for yellow markings is

BS 381C No.355 (lemon); No.309 (canary) is also
acceptable. In environmentally sensitive areas, yellow
markings to No.310 (primrose) or No.353 (deep
cream) may be preferred. Special authorisation is not
necessary for any of these shades. Different shades
should not be used on adjacent lines, as in certain
conditions the lighter colour may appear white when
seen in direct comparison with the standard yellow.

23.21 Road markings, including reflecting road

studs, must be well maintained if they are to fulfil
their purpose. Regulatory markings must be
maintained properly if they are to be enforced
effectively. Guidance can be found in TD 26 in
Volume 8 of the Design Manual for Roads and
Bridges (see para 1.4).
23.22 All markings, including reflecting road studs,
should be inspected at regular intervals both by day
and, where appropriate, for reflectance by night.
Retroreflectivity of road markings can be measured by
static equipment or by dynamic equipment mounted
on a vehicle travelling at normal traffic speeds.

APPLICATION OF MARKINGS
23.19 As it is not possible to lay road markings to
precise dimensions, and to allow for markings
spreading in service, some tolerance in the
prescribed dimensions is permitted by regulation 12.
Specified values may vary by up to 5 for angular
measurements and by the tolerances quoted in
table 23-2 for linear dimensions. No tolerance is
permitted for those angular or linear dimensions
which are expressed as a maximum or minimum
value. A tolerance of plus or minus 25 mm is normally
allowed in the lateral positioning of lane lines.

23.23 It is not possible to recommend specific

renewal intervals for markings as these will depend
upon the type of line, the material comprising the
marking and traffic flow. Traffic authorities should
keep their carriageway markings under review
(particularly on heavily-trafficked roads) to ensure
that their effectiveness is maintained at all times.
23.24 Markings should be renewed as soon as
possible after resurfacing or on the completion of
road works which may have damaged them. Where it
is not practicable to restore them immediately using
permanent materials, a temporary marking should be
used, particularly at sites such as road junctions, if the
absence of a marking might give rise to dangerous
conditions. Arrangements should be made to protect
road studs during surface dressing operations.

23.20 It is essential that all types of marking should

be skid resistant in wet conditions. This is particularly
important where the camber or cross fall is steep, and
at junctions. The Specification for Highway Works
requires a skid resistance value of not less than 45
(sub-clause 1212.3), except in certain locations where
the designer may select a value of not less than 55
Table 23-2 Road marking tolerances
Dimension shown in the diagrams

Allowable tolerance

3 m or more

Up to 15% greater than or 10% less than the specified dimension

300 mm or more, but less than 3 m

Up to 20% greater than or 10% less than the specified dimension

50 mm or more, but less than 300 mm

Up to 30% greater than or 10% less than the specified dimension

144

MATERIALS AND MAINTENANCE

23.25 Where it is not possible to provide temporary

road markings, drivers should be warned of their
absence by means of advance warning signs. At
junctions where all, or any part, of the STOP or Give
Way marking has been removed and temporary
markings cannot be provided, a prescribed variant of
diagram 7012 NO STOP MARKINGS or NO GIVE
WAY MARKINGS should be placed on the minor
road near the junction, preferably about 5 - 10 m from
the edge of the main carriageway. Where road
markings associated with a level crossing are absent,
the variant NO ROAD MARKINGS AT LEVEL
CROSSING should be used. The alternative legends
NO ROAD MARKINGS and NO ROAD
MARKINGS AT JUNCTION should be used where
appropriate. Where lane lines or centre of
carriageway lines on inter-urban roads have been
removed (especially where there is no street lighting),
a sign bearing the legend NO ROAD MARKINGS
FOR X MILES or X YARDS or, if appropriate,
NO ROAD STUDS FOR X MILES or X YARDS
(diagram 7012) should be used with the appropriate
distance inserted.

not obstruct the flow of surface water. However, this

may not be practicable if the markings will be heavily
trafficked, as paint is not very durable, and it might
be preferable to leave short gaps in the marking to
aid drainage.
23.28 Generally a drainage channel of 225 mm
should be maintained between markings and the
kerbed edge of a road. This will allow water to flow
freely and help to ensure that the markings do not
become unnecessarily dirty.

23.26 All obsolete markings and road stud housings,

particularly those which may give a misleading
indication, should be removed as soon as possible.
This is particularly important where new central
refuges are installed; the old centre line and any road
studs should always be realigned (see table 14-1 for
recommended tapers) before the road works signing
and guarding is removed.

DRAINAGE
23.27 It is essential that road markings should not
prevent a carriageway from draining properly. Even
a thin film of standing water can be dangerous in the
winter, when it may freeze. Markings may project
up to 6 mm above the adjacent road surface
(regulation 32), although the ribs of raised rib
markings and the centre portion of diagrams 1003.4
and 1049.1 may be higher. In difficult areas, where
for instance the cross fall is nearly level, or the road is
at the lowest point of a sag curve, it may be
preferable to use paint in place of thermoplastic for
continuous edge lines, as its negligible thickness will

145

APPENDIX A: Northern Ireland variations

The Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2002 apply to England, Wales and Scotland, but in
Northern Ireland the equivalent legislation is the Traffic Signs Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1997. In Northern
Ireland, references to Directions are not applicable; where these are referred to, advice should be sought
from the Roads Service Transportation Unit, Department for Regional Development in Belfast.
The following table indicates differences in regulation numbers between the two sets of Regulations where
these are relevant to this chapter of the Traffic Signs Manual. The notes below indicate other differences of
legislation or practice between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK.

Paragraph
number in
Chapter 5

Meaning

Regulation in the
Traffic Signs
Regulations and
General Directions
2002

Regulation in the
Traffic Signs
Regulations
(Northern Ireland)
1997

16

14

3.1

Legal meaning of the STOP sign

3.1

Legal meaning of the Give Way marking

25(2)

24(2)

Proportional dimensions of hatched markings

12(4)

10(4)

26

25

4.49
5.1

Double white lines; legal requirements and

exemptions

6.15

Colour of non-reflective road studs

11(4)

9(4)

12.1

Legal meaning of yellow box

29(2)

26

23.19

Road marking tolerances

12

10

In the following notes, paragraph numbers refer to this edition of Chapter 5 of the Traffic Signs Manual.
Paragraphs 2.4, 5.7 and 12.4 In Northern Ireland, Section 36 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 should be
replaced with Article 50 of the Road Traffic (Northern Ireland) Order 1995, as amended by Article 75(1) and
item 19 of Schedule 8 to the Road Traffic Regulation (Northern Ireland) Order 1997.
Paragraph 4.27 In Northern Ireland, policy on the use of edge of carriageway markings and associated road
studs is currently being developed. Advice should therefore be sought from the Roads Service Transportation
Unit, Department for Regional Development, Belfast.
Paragraph 11.3 In Northern Ireland, yellow bar markings are prescribed as diagram 1003.6, but only for use at
roundabouts on dual carriageway roads. The dimension from the Give Way line to the first bar is prescribed as
either 35 m or 50 m.
Paragraph 15.1 In Northern Ireland, the relevant Regulations are the Zebra Pedestrian Crossings Regulations
(Northern Ireland) 1974 and the Pelican Pedestrian Crossings Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1989. Puffin and
Toucan crossings in Northern Ireland are authorised on a site by site basis.

146

APPENDIX A: NORTHERN IRELAND VARIATIONS

Paragraph 16.20 In the Northern Ireland Regulations, the cycle reservoir is numbered 1001.1.
Paragraph 18.12 In the Northern Ireland Regulations, the tram stop line is numbered 1001.2.
Paragraph 21.7 In the Northern Ireland Regulations, markings on humps and cushions are prescribed as
composite layouts in diagrams 1060, 1060.1, 1061, 1061.1 and 1062. Elsewhere in the UK, the triangular
hump marking is prescribed separately as diagram 1062; it may be used in conjunction with other prescribed
markings as appropriate.

147

APPENDIX B: Index of diagrams

1001

3.7 - 3.10, 8.21, 9.1, 9.4, 9.5, 9.13, 15.9, 15.10, 16.17, 18.12, 19.3

1001.1

18.12

1001.2

16.20 - 16.22

1001.3

15.1, 15.14 - 15.26, 16.13

1002.1

3.2 - 3.6, 3.11 - 3.13, 4.21, 4.28, 18.13, 19.5

1003

3.2 - 3.6, 3.14 - 3.24, 4.21, 4.28, 8.15, 8.17, 8.43, 8.44, 9.15, 16.3, 16.17,
18.13, 19.4, 21.19, 22.9

1003.1

8.8, 8.21

1003.2

19.6 - 19.8

1003.3

8.8, 8.15, 8.17

1003.4

8.10 - 8.19, 13.7, 23.27

1004 / 1004.1

3.24, 4.4, 4.12 - 4.26, 4.58, 5.2, 7.8, 7.14, 8.25, 9.7, 10.9 - 10.11, 14.1,
14.7, 15.15, 16.5, 16.9, 16.22, 18.9, 19.12, 21.10, 21.23

1005 / 1005.1

4.2, 4.7 - 4.11, 5.28, 9.7, 10.6, 10.9, 10.10

1008 / 1008.1

4.1 - 4.6, 9.7

1009

Edge of carriageway

3.3, 4.27, 4.28, 4.33, 6.9, 16.3, 16.17

Start of a cycle lane

16.6, 16.8, 16.10

Bus / cycle lane

17.5, 17.8

Edge of carriageway

3.22, 4.27 - 4.30, 4.33, 4.36, 6.12, 7.13, 10.5, 10.10, 10.13, 21.20, 22.6

Lane drop

6.9, 10.11, 10.13

Route for high vehicles

13.9, 22.6, 22.7

Swept path for tram

18.19 - 18.23

1010

1012.1 Back of hard shoulder

4.35

Edge of carriageway

3.21, 4.27, 4.31 - 4.39, 4.44, 10.5, 18.8, 19.9, 21.11, 21.18

Footway at level crossing

19.9

1012.2 / 1012.3

3.21, 4.27, 4.39 - 4.48, 4.53, 4.55, 4.61, 4.64, 10.5, 23.16

1013.1

2.6, 5.1 - 5.36, 6.2, 6.5, 7.11, 13.9, 19.13, 19.14

1013.3

2.6, 4.49, 6.2, 6.5, 7.11, 13.9

1013.4

2.6, 4.49, 5.17, 6.2, 6.5

1014

4.50, 4.58, 5.13 - 5.16, 7.9, 7.11, 9.12, 10.10, 13.9, 16.6, 17.7, 18.10,
19.15, 22.6

1017

16.7, 17.11, 20.3 - 20.6, 20.25 - 20.27, 20.29, 21.11, 22.17, 22.25

1018.1

16.7, 17.11, 20.3 - 20.6, 20.29, 21.11, 22.17, 22.25

1019

16.7, 17.11, 20.7 - 20.10, 20.26, 20.29

1020.1

16.7, 17.11, 20.7 - 20.10, 20.26, 20.29

1022

3.11, 3.12, 19.5

1023

3.14, 3.17 - 3.19, 3.24, 8.17, 8.43, 9.15, 16.3, 16.17, 18.13, 19.4, 21.19,
22.3

1024

3.13, 3.14, 22.2 - 22.4

1024.1

13.9, 22.5 - 22.10

148

APPENDIX B: INDEX OF DIAGRAMS

1025.1

16.5, 17.20 - 17.23, 20.28, 20.33

1025.3 / 1025.4

17.20 - 17.23, 20.28, 20.33

1026

8.40, 12.8, 12.9, 22.12 - 22.14

1026.1

22.15 - 22.18

1027.1 KEEP CLEAR

12.9, 22.19

SCHOOL KEEP CLEAR

12.9, 22.19 - 22.25

1028.2

20.11, 20.12, 20.22, 20.25, 20.27, 20.28, 20.33

1028.3

20.11, 20.13, 20.14, 20.22, 20.26, 20.29, 20.33

1028.4

20.11, 20.15, 20.16, 20.22, 20.26, 20.29, 20.33

1029

15.25, 17.15, 22.26 - 22.28

1032

20.11, 20.16, 20.22, 20.26, 20.29

1033

20.11, 20.17, 20.18, 20.26, 20.29

1035

8.30 - 8.33, 13.4, 13.5

1036.1 / 1036.2

13.6

1037

13.6

1038

7.10, 8.30 - 8.33, 9.1, 9.9, 10.10, 13.1 - 13.3, 13.13, 14.7, 17.14, 18.10

1038.1

9.8, 13.7, 13.8

1039

7.10, 10.5, 13.10 - 13.14, 14.7

1040

4.49 - 4.52, 4.57, 4.58, 7.5, 7.6, 8.13, 8.16, 13.9, 14.1, 14.2, 15.26, 16.3,
21.15

1040.2

4.49, 4.51, 4.52, 5.9, 5.14, 14.2, 14.6, 15.26, 16.3, 17.13, 21.15

1040.3

4.42, 4.49, 4.50, 4.53, 6.9, 10.10, 13.9

1040.4

4.49, 4.50, 4.54, 4.57 - 4.59, 8.25, 13.9, 18.17, 21.18, 21.22, 22.7

1040.5

4.42, 4.49, 4.55

1041

4.60, 4.62, 6.9, 8.34, 14.3, 15.26, 16.3

1041.1

4.60, 4.62, 6.9, 8.34, 8.37, 16.3

1042

4.42, 4.61, 4.62, 6.9, 8.34, 10.3, 10.7

1042.1

4.42, 4.61, 4.62, 6.9, 8.34, 8.37

1043 / 1044

8.39, 12.1 - 12.14, 18.15

1045

12.14, 19.18, 19.19

1046

NO ENTRY

22.29 - 22.32, 22.46

PLAY STREET

22.33

1048

16.11, 17.6, 17.14

1048.1

16.11, 17.6, 17.14

1048.2

17.18, 18.4, 18.6, 18.18

1048.3 / 1048.4

17.18

1049

Bus lane

4.51, 4.60, 13.9, 17.5, 17.8, 17.13, 17.17

Cycle lane, track or route

4.51, 4.54, 4.60, 13.9, 16.3, 16.5

Pedestrians and cyclists

16.15

1049.1

16.15, 23.27

149

APPENDIX B: INDEX OF DIAGRAMS

1050

17.8, 17.9

1055.1 Colour and materials

6.15

Cycle crossing

15.13, 16.16

Equestrian crossing

15.1

Signalled crossing

9.13, 9.14, 15.1, 15.13

Toucan crossing

15.1

Unsignalled crossing

15.13

1055.2

6.15, 15.1, 15.11, 15.12

1057

16.3, 16.5, 16.6, 16.10, 16.17, 16.22, 21.21

1058

16.24, 22.50

1058.1

16.3, 16.23, 22.2, 22.50

1059

16.3, 16.25

1062

15.25, 21.7 - 21.10, 21.14, 21.16

1063

22.34 - 22.38

1064

22.39 - 22.43

1065

21.4 - 21.6

1066

18.19 - 18.23

150

INDEX
Advanced stop lines

16.20 - 16.22

Application of markings

23.19, 23.20

Arrows
bifurcation arrows
cycle facilities
deflection arrows

7.10, 13.10 - 13.14, 14.7

16.25
4.50, 4.55, 5.13 - 5.16, 7.9, 7.11, 9.12, 10.10,
13.9, 16.6, 17.7, 18.10, 19.15, 22.6
8.30 - 8.33, 9.9, 13.4, 13.5
9.8, 13.7, 13.8
7.10, 8.30 - 8.33, 9.9, 13.1 - 13.3, 13.6
13.6
8.30 - 8.33

destinations with arrows

guidance arrows in junctions
lane arrows
mandatory movements
roundabouts
Authorisation

2.1

Auxiliary lanes

10.13

Bifurcation arrows

13.10 - 13.14

Box markings - see Yellow Box Markings

British Standards

6.6, 23.9 - 23.13

Build outs

21.18 - 21.21

Bus markings
bus-only streets and gates
bus stops
coloured road surface
contra-flow bus lanes
cycle use of bus lanes
pedestrian crossings
waiting and loading
with-flow bus lanes

17.1 - 17.23
17.18, 17.19
17.20 - 17.23
17.16
17.12 - 17.15
16.11
17.17
17.11
17.3 - 17.11

Centre lines

4.1 - 4.6

Chevron markings
vehicle separation markings

4.60 - 4.62
22.39 - 22.44

Chicanes and pinch points

21.22 - 21.25

Climbing lanes
double white lines
road junctions in climbing lane

5.27 - 5.35
7.12

151

INDEX

Coloured road surface

7.11, 16.12, 17.16

Colours of road markings

23.17, 23.18

Colours of road studs

4.59, 4.65, 6.9 - 6.11

Controlled parking zone

20.29

Cross sections

4.63 - 4.65

Cycle facilities
advanced stop lines
advisory lanes
arrows
coloured road surface
contra-flow lanes
cycle tracks
mandatory lanes
pedestrian crossings
road crossings
road humps
shared use with pedestrians
use of bus lanes
waiting and loading
width of lane
worded markings

16.1 - 16.25
16.20 - 16.22
16.9, 16.10
16.25
16.12
16.4, 16.8, 16.9
3.25, 16.14 - 16.19
16.4 - 16.8
16.13
3.25, 16.16 - 16.19
3.25, 21.12
16.14, 16.15
16.11
16.7, 16.10
16.2, 21.12
16.23, 16.24

Deflection arrows

4.50, 4.53, 5.13 - 5.16, 7.9, 7.11, 9.12, 10.10,

13.9, 16.6, 17.7, 18.10, 19.15, 22.6

Design Manual for Roads and Bridges

1.4, 4.63, 5.28, 5.34, 8.4, 8.5, 8.22, 8.34, 10.1,

10.13, 11.3, 23.21

Destination markings

8.30 - 8.33, 9.9, 13.4, 13.5

Dimensions of road markings

1.17, 2.11

Disabled parking bays

20.11, 20.13, 20.16, 20.18

Double white lines

arch bridge
built up areas
consultation with police
crests
deflection arrows
design
four-lane roads
ghost islands

5.1 - 5.36, 7.11, 7.12

22.8
5.8
5.7
5.34, 5.35
5.13 - 5.16, 19.15
5.23, 5.24
5.26
7.11, 7.12

152

INDEX

Double white lines (cont'd)

legal meaning
level crossings
refuges
road junctions
road studs
sag curves
splayed markings
three-lane hills
three-lane roads
two-lane roads
visibility distance
width of road

5.1
5.36, 19.13 - 19.15
5.18
5.19 - 5.21, 7.11, 7.12
5.11, 5.12, 6.2, 19.16, 19.17
5.33
5.17
5.27 - 5.32
5.25
5.23, 5.24
5.22
5.4

Drainage
raised profile markings
yellow bar markings

23.27, 23.28
4.47
11.6

Dual carriageway
markings at the end of
road junctions

4.56 - 4.59
7.13 - 7.15

Edge of carriageway lines

raised profile

4.27 - 4.38
4.39 - 4.48

Elongated markings
speed limit roundel

22.45 - 22.50
21.4 - 21.6

END marking

16.24, 22.50

Equestrian crossings

15.11, 15.12

European standards
road studs
road marking materials

6.6, 23.11
23.9, 23.10

Gateways

21.26 - 21.28

Ghost islands

7.2 - 7.12

Give Way line

cycle lanes and tracks
cycle priority
junctions
legal meaning
priority traffic sites
roundabouts
temporary removal

16.3
3.25
3.2 - 3.6, 3.14 - 3.23
3.1
3.24
8.8, 8.15, 8.17
23.25

153

INDEX

Grade separated junctions

auxiliary lanes
lane drops
lane gains
merging and diverging slip roads

10.1 - 10.13
10.13
10.11, 10.12
10.8 - 10.10
10.2 - 10.7

Guidance arrows

9.8, 13.7, 13.8

Hatched markings

4.49 - 4.55

High vehicles

22.5 - 22.10

Humped crossings

21.10, 21.17

Junctions, see
grade separated junctions
major / minor junctions
roundabouts
traffic signal controlled junctions
Keep clear markings
accesses and dropped kerbs
at road junctions
at roundabouts
school, hospital, fire, police or ambulance entrances

22.11 - 22.25
22.15 - 22.18
22.12 - 22.14
8.40
22.19 - 22.25

Lane arrows

7.10, 8.30 - 8.33, 13.1 - 13.3, 13.6, 13.7, 16.25

Lane drop at junction

10.11, 10.12

Lane gain at junction

10.8 - 10.10

Lane lines

4.7 - 4.11

Lane loss between junctions

4.53, 4.56 - 4.59

Lane widths
bus lanes
cycle lanes
signalled junctions

17.4, 17.13
16.2, 21.12
9.10 - 9.12

Level crossings
double white lines
longitudinal markings
road studs
transverse markings
types of level crossings
yellow box markings

19.1 - 19.19
5.36, 19.13 - 19.17
19.9 - 19.15
19.16, 19.17
19.2 - 19.8
19.1
12.14, 19.18, 19.19

154

INDEX

LOOK LEFT / LOOK RIGHT marking

22.26 - 22.28

Maintenance

23.21 - 23.26

Major / minor junctions

climbing lanes
coloured road surface
dual carriageways
ghost islands
single lane dualling
T-junctions

7.1 - 7.17
7.12
7.11
7.13 - 7.17
7.2 - 7.12
7.16, 7.17
7.1

Maintenance

23.21 - 23.26

Materials
application of markings
colours
European and British standards
reflectorisation
road marking materials

23.1 - 23.8
23.19, 23.20
23.17, 23.18
23.9 - 23.13
1.15, 1.16, 23.14 - 23.16
23.1 - 23.8

Mini-roundabouts

8.10 - 8.19

NO ENTRY marking

22.29 - 22.32

Northern Ireland variations

Appendix A

Parking bays

20.11 - 20.28

Pedestrian crossings
bus lanes
cycle lanes
equestrian crossings
Pelican crossings
Puffin crossings
road humps
road studs
stop and give way lines
Toucan crossings
traffic signal controlled junction
width of crossing
Zebra crossings
zig-zag markings

15.1 - 15.29
17.1
16.13
15.11, 15.12
15.9, 15.10, 22.26
15.9, 15.10, 22.26
15.29, 21.10, 21.17
15.27, 15.28
15.8 - 15.10
15.9, 15.10, 22.26
9.13 - 9.15
15.2
15.4 - 15.8, 22.26
15.14 - 15.26

Pedestrian zone

20.30 - 20.32

Pelican crossings

15.9, 15.10, 22.26

155

INDEX

Pinch points

21.22 - 21.25

Placing of road markings and studs

2.3 - 2.7

PLAY STREET marking

22.33

Police speed check markings

22.34 - 22.38

Prescribed markings and road studs

2.1, 2.2

Priority traffic sites

3.24, 12.13, 12.14

Private driveways

4.28

Puffin crossings

15.9, 15.10, 22.26

Railway Inspectorate

5.36, 12.14, 18.1, 18.19, 19.1, 21.19

Raised profile lines

drainage gaps

4.39 - 4.48
4.47

Reflectorisation of markings

1.15, 1.16, 2.8, 11.7, 23.14 - 23.16

Restricted zone

20.33

Road humps
cycle lanes

21.7 - 21.12, 21.17

21.12

Road studs
colour of studs and lenses
double white lines
European standards
level crossings
location on edge line
pedestrian crossings
spacing
type approval
types of studs
uni- and bi-directional studs

6.1 - 6.15
4.59, 4.65, 6.9 - 6.11, 10.11
5.11, 5.12, 6.2, 19.16, 19.17
6.6, 23.11
19.16, 19.17
4.38
6.15, 15.27, 15.28
5.11, 6.12 - 6.14
6.6
6.7, 6.8
6.5, 14.2

Roundabouts
arrows
conventional roundabouts
deflection
double roundabouts
lane destinations
lane markings in the circulating area
mini-roundabouts
reversed priority

8.1 - 8.44
8.30 - 8.33
8.7 - 8.9
8.4, 8.16, 8.17
8.18, 8.19
8.30 - 8.33
8.22 - 8.29
8.10 - 8.19
8.42 - 8.44

156

INDEX

Roundabouts (cont'd)
segregated left turn lanes
signalled roundabouts
yellow bar markings
yellow box markings

8.34 - 8.38
8.20, 8.21
11.1 - 11.7
8.39, 12.3

School KEEP CLEAR markings

22.19 - 22.25

Segregated left turn lanes

8.34 - 8.38

Single lane dualling

7.16, 7.17

Skid resistance

11.7, 23.20

SLOW marking

16.23, 22.2 - 22.4

Speed cushions

21.13 - 21.15

Speed limit roundel

21.4 - 21.6

Spiral markings

8.28, 8.29

Stop line
advanced stop line for cyclists
non-signalled junctions
pedestrian crossings
signalled junctions
signalled roundabouts
temporary removal
trams

16.20 - 16.22
3.1 - 3.6, 3.11 - 3.13
15.9, 15.10
3.7 - 3.10, 9.4 - 9.6
8.20, 8.21
23.25
18.12

Tapers

4.23, 4.50, 10.2, 10.10, 10.12, 14.1

Taxi bays

20.22, 20.25 - 20.28

Thumps

21.16

Tolerances

23.19

Toucan crossings

15.9, 15.10, 22.26

Traffic calming
build outs
chicanes and pinch points
gateways
humped crossings
road humps
speed cushions
speed limit roundel

21.1 - 21.28
21.18 - 21.21
21.22 - 21.25
21.26 - 21.28
21.10, 21.17
21.7 - 21.12
21.13 - 21.15
21.4 - 21.6

157

INDEX

Traffic calming (cont'd)

thumps
waiting and loading restrictions

21.16
21.11

Traffic islands

4.23, 14.1 - 14.8

Traffic signal controlled junctions

approach lane markings
exit lane taper
lane destinations
lane widths
longitudinal markings
markings within the junction
pedestrian crossing points
roundabouts
stop lines
unsignalled vehicle movements

9.1 - 9.15
9.7
9.12
9.9
9.10 - 9.12
9.7, 9.8
9.8, 13.7, 13.8
9.13 - 9.15
8.20, 8.21
3.7 - 3.10, 9.4 - 9.6
9.15

Tram markings
integrated tramways
off-street tramways
road junctions
segregated tramways
swept path markings
tram gates
tram stop line
tram stops
yellow box marking

18.1 - 18.23
18.3
18.7 - 18.10
18.11 - 18.14
18.5, 18.6
18.19 - 18.23
18.4
18.12
18.16 - 18.18
18.15, 18.23

Type approval

2.2, 6.6

Use of road markings

1.6 - 1.9

Vehicle separation markings

22.39 - 22.44

Visibility distance

5.22

Visibility of road markings

1.10 - 1.14

Waiting and loading

bus lanes
controlled parking zone
cycle lanes
disabled parking bays
lorry and bus parking ban zone
marking of bays
parking bays
pedestrian zone

20.1 - 20.35
17.11
20.29
16.7, 16.10
20.11, 20.13, 20.16, 20.18
20.34
20.19 - 20.23
20.11 - 20.28
20.30 - 20.32

158

INDEX

Waiting and loading (cont'd)

prohibition of loading
prohibition of waiting
restricted zone
road humps
shared and part time bays
taxi bays

20.7 - 20.10
20.3 - 20.6
20.33
21.11
20.24 - 20.28
20.22, 20.25 - 20.28

Warning lines
minimum number of marks

4.12 - 4.26
4.25

Word formation

22.45 - 22.50

Worded and diagrammatic markings

formation of words
high vehicles
keep clear
LOOK LEFT / RIGHT
NO ENTRY
PLAY STREET
police speed check markings
SLOW
vehicle separation markings

22.45 - 22.50
22.5 - 22.10
22.11 - 22.25
22.26 - 22.28
22.29 - 22.32
22.33
22.34 - 22.38
16.23, 22.2 - 22.4, 22.50
22.39 - 22.44

Working drawings

1.17

Yellow bar markings

criteria
design of marking
drainage
reflectorisation
skid resistance
spacing of bars
thickness of marking

11.1 - 11.7
11.3, 11.4
11.5
11.6
11.7
11.7
11.15
11.7

Yellow box markings

8.39, 12.1 - 12.14, 18.15, 18.23,

19.18, 19.19
12.1 - 12.4
12.14, 19.18, 19.19
12.13
8.39, 12.3
12.11, 12.12
12.5 - 12.10
18.15, 18.23

legal aspects
level crossings
priority traffic site
roundabouts
setting out
suitability of site
tram crossings
Zebra crossings

15.4 - 15.8, 22.26

Zig-zag markings

15.14 - 15.26

159