§ 103. Mr. Dudley Smithasked the Minister of Transport if he is aware that many direction signs on trunk roads are often obscured with mud and dirt; and what guidance he gives to county council authorities as to their cleaning and maintenance.
Mr. Bob BrownGuidance to county councils on the cleaning and maintenance of traffic signs is contained in Chapter 12 of the Traffic Signs Manual published in April this year. In particular the Manual 87W emphasises that mud, road dirt and the like should not be allowed to obscure the faces of signs. Detailed guidance is also given on the manner in which signs may be cleaned. The frequency of cleaning depends on climatic conditions, siting and the material used for the sign face.