Temporary traffic signals

Temporary Traffic Signals

Temporary traffic signals are typically used to direct traffic whilst roadworks or streetworks are being carried out.

Legislation

You must liaise with and apply for permission from Wirral Council before erecting temporary traffic signals on the highway. The placement of temporary traffic signals without authority may constitute an offence under the Highways Act 1980.

In the interests of highway safety tacit consent does not apply and temporary traffic signals should not be placed on the highway unless consent has been granted.

Application for Temporary Traffic Signals

1. The use of portable temporary traffic signals is regulated by highway legislation and authorisation is legally required from the Council.
2. All applications must contain the required information to process the application.
3. The application form must be returned with a 1:500 plan (or better) showing the location of the works and the required position of signal heads.
4. The size, type and location of all temporary signals are to be detailed in accordance with advice given in Chapter 8 of the Traffic Signs Manual and Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2004 (as amended).
5. The application must be received a minimum of 10 days before the signals are to be installed. Please note the approval process may take longer for more complicated proposals e.g. sites which affect traffic sensitive routes or where there are potential safety implications.
6. The applicant is responsible for all temporary traffic management, planning the work and risk assessments. The applicant must take into account site-specific factors such as schools, zebra crossings, traffic signals and commercial and industrial activity when planning the work.
7. The operator of the temporary traffic signals is responsible for adjusting green times at sites that are subject to high traffic flows to minimise delays and balance queues.
8. The operator must immediately notify the Council of any changes to his proposals and any change of information supplied on the application form.
9. All applications will be subject to approval pending consultation with the relevant statutory bodies.

Application form

Forms are included within the General Conditions for Breaking Open the Highway document which can be downloaded. Alternatively, you can request paper copies of the forms by contacting Streetscene.

Apply Online

You may apply for the use of portable light signals online here through Business Link

How much are the fees?

The following fees apply;

• Applicants must provide a fee of £222 should the traffic control arrangements conflict with an existing traffic signal junction/pedestrian crossing within 100m of the works area during normal working hours. Out of hours will require a fee of £280.

Who do I contact when?

• The lights don't stay on green long enough?
• The lights aren't working or a lamp has failed?
• The signals are causing excessive traffic delays?

Where roadworks are taking place there should be a courtesy board placed by whoever is carrying out the works. This courtesy board tells you the company name and their telephone number. You can either telephone them direct or contact Wirral Council using the details on the right.

If you have been refused permission to erect temporary traffic signals you should contact Streetscene in the first instance using the details on the right.