Fulton Hogan operations engineer David Hart stands by the new Rocks Rd sign sockets while Grant Moulder (cyclist) and Gillian Dancey (pedestrian) enjoy the extra space. Photo: Jonty Dine.

Safer signs for Rocks Road

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Nelson’s most scenic road is set to be a little less congested thanks to a new NZTA innovation.

The agency recently installed a series of small, signpost sockets at regular intervals along Rocks Road, where the cycle lane and footpath are close to the State Highway 6 traffic.

The signs come after the Nelson Weekly reported on issues with cyclists regularly having to serve into passing traffic to get around signage.

NZTA system manager Frank Porter says Rocks Rd is an area where there is regular road maintenance and need for temporary traffic management.

“These signpost sockets will be well used,” Frank says.

These temporary signs are designed to be inserted directly into the sockets, replacing the use of four prong base stands.

“This is safer for pedestrians and cyclists as there is very little space on the highway and the ‘legs’ of the usual temporary signs take up valuable space on the footpath or cycleway.”

The specially designed regulatory roadwork signs will be 2.5 metres in height and built to the same standards as permanent signs.

The height of the new signs will also increase visibility, as they can be seen from further away, giving a longer warning time.