The repair of such damage is expensive and wasteful of money that could be used much more cost effectively to improve the standards of footways generally. It should be noted that those driving on a footway may be liable to a fine of 1,000. There are a number of properties located adjacent to roads with a 'blind exit' making it dangerous for both the individual emerging and the public in general travelling along the main road. Mirrors located on the main road would assist those joining the highway, but unfortunately a mirror is an obstruction on the highway. In addition lights from a vehicle emerging from a private access may shine onto the mirror and reflect into the eyes of an approaching motorist causing considerable confusion and possibly an accident.
Some owners request a sign where their entrance is hidden from the main road.
However, the Traffic Signs Manual makes no provision for such a 'concealed entrance' sign and therefore there is nothing that can be legally provided by the Highway Authority to help in such situations. One course of action that may resolve the situation would be the removal or lowering of adjacent hedges to improve visibility. Q.7 Cormac have been gritting the roads - vehicles going too fast and throwing grit all over my car. A.7 'Grit' that is spread onto a road surface in advance of snow or freezing conditions is actually rock salt and present supplies are obtained from underground mines in Cheshire. When Cormac, our contractor, is spreading salt there are recommended rates of travelling to avoid grit damaging other vehicles.