Long traffic queues and pedestrians build up either side of Rye's Ferry Road level crossing stretching back (on one side) over the Tillingham Bridge and on the other back to the Kettle roundabout with a cloud of fumes rising over the vehicles, but a reader is concerned over the highways authority's inaction. He writes :
"The County Council have reasons why nothing can be done as they can not currently install, or license the installation of, anti-idling signage at any location because:
- There is limited evidence that anti-idling signage is particularly effective
- There is a priority to reduce the amount of signage on the highway as this
can cause a distraction to drivers - The system of double white lines approaching a level crossing is classed as a controlled zone. This means that any signing within this area would require a specific Traffic Regulation Order
- There does not appear to be any legislation that would allow for
enforcement against drivers who idle their engines whilst queuing in traffic."
But are these reasons acceptable ?
