Traffic Signs and Lighting Section 2 Traffic Signs and Road Markings

DESIGN MANUAL FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES
VOLUME 8 TRAFFIC SIGNS AND

LIGHTING
SECTION 2 TRAFFIC SIGNS AND
ROAD MARKINGS
PART 4
TD 52/04
TRAFFIC SIGNS TO TOURIST

ATTRACTIONS AND FACILITIES IN
ENGLAND
TOURIST SIGNING - TRUNK ROADS
SUMMARY
This Standard contains guidance on the provision of

tourist destination signs on the all-purpose and
motorway trunk road network in England.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE
This is a new document to be incorporated into the

Manual.
1. Remove existing contents pages for Volume 8.
2. Insert new contents pages for Volume 8, dated

February 2004.
3. Insert TD 52/04 into Volume 8, Section 2, Part 4.
4. Please archive this sheet as appropriate.
Note: A quarterly index with a full set of Volume

Contents Pages is available separately from The
Stationery Office Ltd.
February 2004
DESIGN MANUAL FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES TD 52/04
THE HIGHWAYS AGENCY
SCOTTISH EXECUTIVE
WELSH ASSEMBLY GOVERNMENT

LLYWODRAETH CYNULLIAD CYMRU
THE DEPARTMENT FOR REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

NORTHERN IRELAND
Traffic Signs to Tourist Attractions

and Facilities in England
Tourist Signing - Trunk Roads
Summary: This Standard contains guidance on the provision of tourist destination signs on
the all-purpose and motorway trunk road network in England.
Volume 8 Section 2
Part 4 TD 52/04 Registration of Amendments
REGISTRATION OF AMENDMENTS
Amend Page No Signature & Date of Amend Page No Signature & Date of
No incorporation of No incorporation of
amendments amendments
February 2004
Volume 8 Section 2
Registration of Amendments Part 4 TD 52/04
REGISTRATION OF AMENDMENTS
Amend Page No Signature & Date of Amend Page No Signature & Date of
No incorporation of No incorporation of
amendments amendments
February 2004
DESIGN MANUAL FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES
VOLUME 8 TRAFFIC SIGNS AND

LIGHTING
SECTION 2 TRAFFIC SIGNS AND
ROAD MARKINGS
PART 4
TD 52/04
TRAFFIC SIGNS TO TOURIST

ATTRACTIONS AND FACILITIES IN
ENGLAND
TOURIST SIGNING - TRUNK ROADS
Contents
Chapter
1. Introduction
15. Pedestrian Signs
2. Definition of a Tourist Destination
16. Town or Village Boundary Signs
3. Signing Policy Criteria
17. Application Process
4. Quality of Tourist Destinations
18. Financial Arrangements
5. Tourist Attraction Visitor Numbers
19. Review of Existing Signs
6. Environmental Impact
20. References
7. Country Tours, Tourist Routes and Areas
21. Bibliography
8. Tourist Information Centres and Points
22. Enquiries
9. Signing Continuity and Extent
Annex A Options for Sign Diagrams 2217
10. Sign Design and 2927.1
11. Symbols Annex B: Options for Sign Diagrams 2328
and 2329
12. Excess Signing Demand
Annex C: Highways Agency Standard Application
13. Bypassed Community and Tourist Facilities Form for Tourist Signs on Trunk Roads
Signs
14. Collective Signing of Tourist Attractions
February 2004
Volume 8 Section 2 Chapter 1
Part 4 TD 52/04 Introduction
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 This Standard contains guidance on the provision management reasons) in addition to any ancillary
of tourist destination signs on the all-purpose and benefit to the destination signed. Tourist signs will only
motorway trunk road network in England. Separate be approved where existing directional signs are not
Advice Notes contain a general introduction to tourist sufficient.
signing [1] and guidance on the provision of tourist
destination signs on the local road network in England 1.5 In this document, the term “trunk roads” refers to
[2]. Circular Roads 3/95 [3] and the Highways Agency both all-purpose and motorway trunk roads, unless
(HA) supplementary guidance for trunk roads [4] specified otherwise. The term “Route Manager” refers
(which were both issued in December 1995) are to the HA Route Manager or a member of the area team
withdrawn. This Standard shall be implemented with for the trunk road.
immediate effect.
1.6 The term “Home Traffic Authority” (HTA) refers
1.2 For tourist signing on and within the M25/A282 to the traffic authority for the road which provides the
orbital route, the guidance entitled “Tourist Traffic main direct access to a tourist destination (see also
Signs Inside the M25” [5] published by the Government paragraph 17.1).
Offices for the Eastern Region, London and the South
East and the Highways Agency, and which came into 1.7 In this document, the term “maps and atlases”
effect on 3 February 1997, continues to apply with refers to current road maps and atlases that are
regard to tourist destinations located inside the published for direction finding generally, as distinct
M25/A282 orbital route. from local and regional tourist publications.
1.3 The objective of this Standard is to provide 1.8 In this document, the term “sign diagram xxxx”
guidance on signs appropriate to meet the strategic refers to the correspondingly numbered diagram in
needs of the tourism industry and road users in general, TSRGD.
and which is consistent with safe and efficient traffic
management and with minimal impact on the
environment. Route Managers need to ensure that all
these factors are properly taken into account when
preparing or updating their signing strategies for a
route, as part of the overall Route Management
Strategy.
1.4 White on brown directional signs are traffic signs

and must comply with The Traffic Signs Regulations
and General Directions (TSRGD) [6] and the guidance
for its use. Signs should also comply with the design
guidance given in Chapter 7 of the Traffic Signs
Manual [7]. Their main purpose is to guide visitors to
their intended tourist destination along the most
appropriate route during the latter stage of their journey,
particularly where the destination may be difficult to
find. While it is recognised that white on brown signs
are perceived by tourist businesses as useful marketing
tools, this is not the purpose for which they are
provided. They should not be used as a means of
circumventing planning control of advertisements, nor
as a substitute for good promotional material. White on
brown tourist signs (like other directional signs) should
only be used where they will benefit road users (i.e. as
an aid to navigation and for safety or traffic
February 2004 1/1

Part 4 TD 52/04 Definition of a Tourist Destination
2. DEFINITION OF A TOURIST DESTINATION
2.1 During the recent revision of TSRGD the

statutory definition concerning tourist signing has been
amended, and the following definition of a tourist
destination is used in this guidance:
A tourist destination means a permanently established

attraction or facility which:
(a) attracts or is used by visitors to an area; and
(b) is open to the public without prior booking

during its normal opening hours.
2.2 Tourist attractions include visitor centres,

theme parks, historic buildings, museums, zoos, parks
and gardens, natural attractions (such as nature
reserves, beaches and viewpoints), areas of special
interest, country tours, tourist routes, sports centres,
concert venues, theatres and cinemas.
2.3 Tourist facilities include hotels, guesthouses,

bed & breakfast establishments, public houses,
restaurants, holiday parks, touring and camping parks,
picnic sites and Tourist Information Centres.
2.4 These are not exhaustive lists, but give a broad

indication of the types of establishments in each
category.
February 2004 2/1

Part 4 TD 52/04 Signing Policy Criteria
3. SIGNING POLICY CRITERIA
3.1 Applications should be considered on their 3.6 Where Park and Ride (P&R) signing directs road
merits, and the tourist destinations signed should at users to P&R sites, on the outskirts of a town, it may
least meet the criteria for signing adopted by the HTA. not be appropriate for tourist signs to direct road users
On trunk roads, priority for white on brown signing will to the town centre, even if there are tourist destinations
be given to tourist attractions which receive large numbers in the town centre. However, if the P&R bus service is
of visitors and which cannot be reached simply by only operational during restricted hours (e.g. peak hours
following signs to a town or city which appears on their only) then there may be a need to have tourist signing
address. Where a community is already signed from a as well as P&R signing. It would be preferable for the
trunk road, tourist destinations within the community signs to include the days of operation of the P&R site.
will not normally be signed on the trunk road network.
3.7 For a new or purpose-built tourist attraction to be
3.2 Retail parks, shopping centres, garden centres signed, it will be required to:
and exhibition centres should not, in future, be
considered for signing from trunk roads using white on (a) have adequate parking on site or close by. The
brown signs; instead they should be signed as necessary signs should direct road users to the parking
for traffic management or safety reasons using standard facilities rather than the tourist attraction itself;
directional signing. (b) have adequate toilets on site or close by
(including for disabled people);
3.3 Permanent garden exhibitions, which could be
part of, or attached to, a garden centre, may be (c) have adequate publicity material (e.g. leaflets
considered for signing as tourist attractions if all the including a clear and accurate map or directions,
following criteria are met: within tourist guide books, on a web site and at
Tourist Information Centres); and
(a) the exhibition is recognised as being of national
importance in horticultural or arboricultural terms; (d) be generally of good quality, well-maintained and
adhere to the accessibility standards suitable for
(b) the exhibition qualifies as an eligible tourist their use. (Legislation guiding organisations as to
attraction in this guidance; and where and when disabled access is appropriate is
contained within the Disability Discrimination
(c) the exhibition is to be signed, not the garden centre.
Act 1995 [8].)
3.4 Hotels, public houses, guesthouses, bed and
3.8 Eligibility does not confer automatic
breakfast establishments, restaurants, sports centres,
entitlement to tourist signs. In each case, the decision
concert venues, theatres and cinemas should not
is made by the appropriate Route Manager. Decisions
normally be signed from the trunk road network.
on signing individual establishments will depend on
Exceptionally, it may be appropriate to sign remote
local circumstances, including the number of other
establishments for traffic management purposes in
similar establishments in the area. However, it should
sparsely populated rural areas, provided the
be remembered that the main purpose of tourist signing
environmental impact is minimal. (Refer also to
is for more efficient traffic management on the trunk
paragraph 9.2 and Section 13).
road network. It is not intended that signs should be
3.5 Sports stadia of national importance may be used as advertising for the tourist destination.
signed from a trunk road where there are exceptional
3.9 A tourist destination will not be eligible for
traffic management and safety reasons. In such cases,
tourist signing unless any advertisement signs relating
signing must be consistent (in terms of colours and
to that destination are removed permanently from
symbols) with that on the local road network.
private land adjacent to the highway.
February 2004 3/1

Chapter 3 Volume 8 Section 2
Signing Policy Criteria Part 4 TD 52/04
3.10 It is important to ensure that there is consistency

and continuity of tourist signing across HA and local
authority boundaries. This is particularly important in
large urban areas, where there are many local
authorities, each with differing policies and strategies.
Therefore, the tourist signing strategy for a route should
be developed after consulting the Route Managers for
nearby HA routes, as well as adjoining local authorities
(including National Park authorities where appropriate)
and local and regional tourist organisations, to agree
consistent arrangements for cross-boundary signing.
3/2 February 2004

Part 4 TD 52/04 Quality of Tourist Destinations
4. QUALITY OF TOURIST DESTINATIONS
4.1 The Highways Agency is not responsible for

ensuring the quality of tourist destinations signed from
trunk roads. Nevertheless, it has to deal with complaints
when tourists follow signs on the trunk road and travel
a significant distance with a disappointing result.
Membership of a recognised national or regional
scheme for maintaining quality standards is therefore a
relevant factor in consideration of an application.
4.2 For example, there is now a voluntary “Visitor

Attraction Quality Assurance Service” (VAQAS) run by
VisitBritain (formerly the English Tourism Council) [9].
It is recommended that any tourist attraction signed
from trunk roads should normally be accredited by
VAQAS or a recognised national or regional scheme of
this sort. This will help to maintain confidence in
signing and standards generally, without the need for
additional vetting by the regional and local tourist
organisations.
4.3 It is also recommended that, where possible,

tourist facilities should be recognised by an appropriate
body concerned with maintaining quality standards. For
instance, hotels, guesthouses and bed & breakfast
establishments should normally be recognised by the
National Quality Assurance Scheme (VisitBritain, AA
and RAC) [10]. Any touring caravan or camping
site/park must be licensed under the Caravan Sites and
Control of Development Act 1960 and/or the Public
Health Act 1936, have a minimum of 20 pitches
available for casual overnight use and should normally
be accredited by an appropriate quality assurance
scheme (e.g. [11] or [12]). Any holiday park should
normally be accredited by the British Graded Holiday
Parks Scheme [13] or a similar scheme.
February 2004 4/1

Part 4 TD 52/04 Tourist Attraction Visitor Numbers
5. TOURIST ATTRACTION VISITOR NUMBERS
5.1 Minimum visitor numbers for all tourist given. In each case, the onus is on the applicant and the
attractions signed from trunk roads should be applied, HTA to provide good reason why the criterion should
by relating the visitor numbers to the type of be relaxed.
carriageway where the proposed tourist signs are to be
located. The following table sets out the number of 5.5 Where a tourist attraction has not yet opened and
visitors normally required for an attraction to merit visitor numbers are only projections, the Route
signing from a trunk road. Manager should assess whether other factors, such as
the size and location of car parks and/or the availability
Trunk Road Type Minimum Number of Park and Ride facilities, are in keeping with the
of Visitors per Year projections.
Motorways within or adjacent to a large
conurbation, including the M25 250,000
Other motorways 200,000
Dual carriageways with grade separated

junctions or a speed limit of 50 mph or more 150,000
Other dual carriageways 100,000
Single carriageways 40,000
5.2 Visitor attractions which do not meet the annual

visitor number criterion may be considered for tourist
signing if the number of visitors in the peak month
exceeds 20% of the annual requirement shown in the
above table. Achieving the anticipated visitor
numbers does not confer automatic entitlement to
tourist signs. Other factors will also need to be
considered.
5.3 On lengths of high-speed dual carriageway

(where the speed limit is 50 mph or more) interspersed
with short lengths of lower standard carriageway, Route
Managers may, if appropriate, adopt the higher level for
the whole route.
5.4 Some flexibility should be exercised concerning

the annual number of visitors required, especially if
there are good traffic management or safety reasons for
signing e.g. at the last junction before the tourist
attraction is reached or if a high percentage of visitors
are non-local. Special consideration should also be
given to signing historical or cultural attractions of
national importance. In addition, for a sparsely
populated rural area with few tourist attractions the
limits could be more relaxed than for a more densely
populated urban area with a larger number of tourist
attractions, though in such cases proper consideration
of the environmental impact of such signing must be
February 2004 5/1

Part 4 TD 52/04 Environmental Impact
6. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
6.1 New tourist signs, in conjunction with other

traffic signs, can have a cumulative detrimental impact
on the environment. This is particularly the case in
conservation and rural areas, where signing can have
more of a visual impact on the character of the area.
Also, the effects of proposed new signs on their
surroundings need to be considered whatever the
location, and it is important that the environmental
impact of new signs is minimised, as far as is consistent
with their intended purpose.
6.2 In environmentally sensitive areas such as

National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural
Beauty, the impact of any new signing requires special
consideration. Local authority policies differ in detail,
and different standards may apply within separate areas
of one authority, so Route Managers will need to liaise
with the relevant authorities.
February 2004 6/1

Part 4 TD 52/04 Country Tours, Tourist Routes and Areas
7. COUNTRY TOURS, TOURIST ROUTES AND

AREAS
7.1 Where roads linking places of interest have been
designated as a circular country tour, this can be signed
using white on brown signs to diagrams 2210, 2211 and
2212 in TSRGD. These signs should be repeated as
necessary along the country tour until the original
departure point is returned to (e.g. a permanently
established tourist information facility with good
access, parking and toilets). Any prescribed or approved
symbol may be used (see Chapter 11). Such signs are
not prescribed for motorways and not normally
recommended for high-speed dual carriageways (where
the speed limit is 50 mph or more). Signs incorporating
the “cycle” symbol may be used to indicate a tour
specifically for cyclists.
7.2 Where a linear route has been designated as a

tourist route, this can be signed using white on brown
signs to diagrams 2213 and 2214 in TSRGD. A route
would normally be designated as a tourist route if it is
an alternative route to the quickest or most direct route
to the named destination. These signs should be
repeated as necessary along the route until the named
destination is reached. The legends “Tourist route”,
“Coastal route” or “Scenic route” may be used. Any
prescribed or approved symbol may be used (see
Chapter 11). Such signs are not prescribed for
motorways and not normally recommended for high-
speed dual carriageways (where the speed limit is 50
mph or more).
7.3 National Parks and areas that are marketed under

a collective theme, e.g. literary or historic connections,
should not normally be signed, unless traffic is routed
to a permanently established tourist information facility
with good access, parking and toilets, the name appears
on maps and atlases, and the area has signed
boundaries. Boundary signs for geographic areas are
not covered by TSRGD and require special
authorisation.
February 2004 7/1

Part 4 TD 52/04 Tourist Information Centres and Points
8. TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES AND

POINTS
8.1 “Tourist Information Centre” (TIC) means a
staffed information service centre normally recognised
and supported by the local authority or local tourism
organisation. TICs can be used effectively to direct
drivers to a whole range of regional tourist destinations.
This has potential benefits in terms of traffic
management and safety, and in terms of economic
regional development of tourism in an area.
Consequently, TICs will be eligible for signing from all
trunk roads (including motorways) provided adequate
parking capacity is available at the TIC or nearby.
8.2 As the “i” symbol can be used to mean either a

Tourist Information Point (TIP) (a display of tourist
information approved by a regional, area or local tourist
board) or a staffed information centre, it would be
useful to differentiate between the two. It is
recommended that initial signs to TICs should display
the legend:
i Tourist information centre
Signs to TIPs should not include the word “centre”.

Subsequent signs to either may simply use the “i”
symbol.
8.3 At TICs, basic information must also be available

outside opening hours. This is particularly useful for
details of hotels and B&B establishments, so that the
information is available to visitors arriving in the
evening looking for accommodation.
8.4 Tourist information display signs should conform

to diagram 857 of TSRGD. Blue and white information
signs provided under the 1981 Regulations should be
replaced with the white on brown signs shown in
TSRGD 2002 as soon as resources permit.
8.5 Initial tourist signs to a Tourist Information

Centre should be to diagram 2202 or 2205 (on an all-
purpose trunk road) or to diagram 2924 (on a
motorway).
February 2004 8/1

Part 4 TD 52/04 Signing Continuity and Extent
9. SIGNING CONTINUITY AND EXTENT
9.1 There must be continuity of signing from the first

sign to the destination.
9.2 The distance from a tourist destination at which it

is first signed should be appropriate to its location and
traffic management needs. For most tourist destinations,
signing would only be appropriate within two or three
miles (distance travelled by the road user from the first
tourist sign to the tourist destination). In exceptional
cases, for a major attraction in a remote area (i.e. not
located close to a large town), signing may be justified
from further away. A major tourist attraction is where
the number of visitors is normally more than 500,000
per year.
9.3 A tourist destination should only be signed from

a trunk road if continuity signing has been provided on
the local road network until the destination is reached.
The route onto which traffic is being directed must be
the most suitable link from the trunk road to the
destination.
February 2004 9/1

Part 4 TD 52/04 Sign Design
10. SIGN DESIGN
10.1 An objective of this guidance is to achieve a 10.5 As in LTN 1/94 paragraph 3.3.1 “Brown tourist
balance between assisting tourists, minimising attraction panels shall not be used on motorway signs
environmental intrusion and maintaining safety (by on the approach to intermediate junctions. Where
preventing an overload of information on a sign, which tourist attraction signing is approved, separately
could not be read and understood safely by a driver mounted brown signs shall be provided, normally at ¾
passing the sign at normal speed). General guidance on and ¼ miles in advance of junctions. Brown panels may
safe principles for sign design is given in paragraphs be provided on the advance direction signs on exit slip
2.1 and 2.2 of the General Introduction. This section of roads and where the motorway ends at a roundabout, as
the trunk road guidance and Chapter 11 on the use of an alternative to separately mounted brown signs should
symbols, are aimed primarily at sign designers and space constraints preclude the use of separate signs.”
supplement the guidance given in Local Transport Note
(LTN) 1/94 [14] and in Chapter 7 of the Traffic Signs 10.6 The sequence of advance direction signs (ADSs)
Manual. observed by a driver on a motorway should normally
be the following:
10.2 When following the guidance in LTN 1/94 on the
maximum number of destinations that it is advisable to (a) Main ADS; (i.e. at 1 mile prior to the junction)
include on any one sign, it should be borne in mind that (b) Tourist ADS;
tourist destinations, generally, have longer names than
other destinations, and that this will be an additional (c) Main ADS; (i.e. at ½ mile prior to the junction)
constraint on the number of destinations that can
(d) Tourist ADS;
sensibly be included. In the interests of safety and
minimising environmental intrusion, the maximum (e) Final Main ADS.
number of tourist destinations signed on each approach
to and exit from a junction should not normally exceed The two tourist advance direction signs must be
four on lower speed roads (with a speed limit of less identical and should be to diagram 2924. Tourist
than 50 mph) and three on higher speed roads (with a advance direction signs to diagram 2924 do not include
speed limit of 50 mph or more). The number of non- the distance to the junction.
tourist signs at the location should also be taken into
consideration. 10.7 Also as in LTN 1/94 paragraph 3.3.2: “On all-
purpose roads, tourist attractions may be shown on
10.3 The x-height of legend on any sign should always brown panels on the main advance direction and on
be appropriate for the 85th percentile approach speed of direction signs, or alternatively on separately mounted
private cars at the proposed sign location. The guidance brown signs. On primary routes, particularly grade-
in LTN 1/94 (Annex A, paragraph 2) should be separated dual carriageways, preference should be
followed, even in environmentally sensitive areas, given to separate signing.”
where there can be pressure to reduce the x-height.
Lengthy tourist destination names will require larger 10.8 The sequence of advance direction signs observed
signs. If the name cannot be shortened, this will further by a driver approaching a grade separated junction on
constrain the maximum number of destinations that can an all-purpose dual carriageway road should normally
be included on a sign. The x-height for tourist be as shown in one of the following options:
destinations must always be the same as for main and
local destinations on the same sign. (1) Option 1
(a) Main ADS; (i.e. at ½ mile prior to the
10.4 Where more than one tourist destination is signed junction)
in advance of a junction, they should normally be
incorporated together on one sign. It is not advisable to (b) Local + Tourist ADS;
sign more than one set of tourist destinations on any
approach to a junction. Sign designers are reminded (c) Final Main ADS.
that TSRGD does not permit the addition of a header
The “Local + Tourist” ADS should be located between
board naming the junction on tourist signs.
the “Main” ADS and the junction if the “Final Main”
ADS is not provided, due to space constraints.
February 2004 10/1
Sign Design Part 4 TD 52/04
(2) Option 2 (3) Option 3
(a) Main + Local ADS; (i.e. at ½ mile prior to (a) Main ADS;
the junction)
(b) Local + Tourist ADS.
(b) Tourist ADS;
(4) Option 4
(c) Final Main + Local ADS.
(a) Main + Local + Tourist ADS.
The “Tourist” ADS should be located between the
“Main + Local” ADS and the junction if the “Final Brown tourist sign panels are often included on the
Main + Local” ADS is not provided, due to space “Local” ADS (option 3) or “Main + Local” ADS
constraints. (option 4) where space constraints preclude the use of a
separate (free standing) Tourist ADS. The option
For Options 1 and 2: Where, unusually, it has been chosen should be the most appropriate for the number
considered necessary to provide a 1 mile ADS, it may of destinations to be shown in accordance with normal
be appropriate to provide an additional tourist sign sign design rules.
between the 1 mile ADS and the ½ mile ADS.
10.10 Tourist advance direction signs to diagram 2202
(3) Option 3 do not include the distance to the junction.
(a) Main + Local + Tourist ADS; (i.e. at ½ 10.11 A flag type direction sign should always be
mile prior to the junction) preceded by an ADS.
(b) Final Main + Local + Tourist ADS. 10.12 Tourist destinations with direct access from an
all-purpose trunk road may not need signing if the
For Options 1, 2 and 3: There should only be one sign entrance is visible and identifiable from a distance that
on the nose of the exit slip road and it must not include allows vehicles to approach it safely. In other cases,
any tourist destinations. The sign on the nose of the exit especially on high-speed roads with a speed limit of 50
slip road should include the route number only, unless mph or more, advance direction signs followed by
the route is not numbered. direction signs at the entrance may be needed to guide
traffic safely to the destination.
The option chosen should be the most appropriate for
the number of destinations to be shown in accordance 10.13 If a tourist destination is closed for part of the
with normal sign design rules. year (e.g. during the period October to March), then
consideration should be given to the use of variable
10.9 The sequence of advance direction signs signs (i.e. flap-type or rotating plank), so that the legend
observed by a driver approaching an at grade would only be visible during the period when the
all-purpose road junction should normally be as shown destination is open. Diagram 2209 allows the distance
in one of the following options: shown to be varied to “CLOSED” or additionally to
show the opening times. The arrangements for
(1) Option 1 operating and maintaining such signs should be
specified in the signs agreement (see paragraph 18.3).
(a) Main ADS;
(b) Local ADS;
(c) Tourist ADS.
(2) Option 2
(a) Main + Local ADS;
(b) Tourist ADS.
10/2 February 2004

Part 4 TD 52/04 Symbols
11. SYMBOLS
11.1 Schedule 14 of TSRGD prescribes standard 11.5 Where symbols alone are used on a continuity
symbols representing the most common types of tourist sign, the number of symbols should not exceed four, to
attraction or facility, which can be used on white on minimise environmental intrusion and the risk of driver
brown tourist signs without reference to the Department confusion.
for Transport (DfT). They are intended to be only
representative of the type of attraction or facility being 11.6 No more than one symbol should be shown in
signed, and the short descriptions given for each symbol connection with the legend for each tourist attraction, to
in Schedule 14 allow a flexible interpretation. Most of minimise environmental intrusion and the risk of driver
these standard symbols are easily recognisable to confusion.
tourists because they are similar to the symbols used on
maps and atlases. 11.7 Where there is more than one tourist destination
in the locality which would be eligible to use the same
11.2 Although Schedule 14 of TSRGD is generally symbol (e.g. “North Beach” and “South Beach” in a
deemed sufficient, the Regulations also allow the use of seaside town), then the signs for these destinations must
any other symbol approved by the DfT. Approved show the destination name and symbol or just the
symbols (prefixed AT) will be made available by the destination name. Continuity and consistency of signing
DfT as working drawings and on the DfT website. is important, so either all of the signs on the approach
Exceptionally, there may be significant traffic to (say) the “North Beach” should show destination
management reasons for using individual or special name and symbol or all of the signs should show just
symbols (e.g. the symbol for Hampton Court Palace). the destination name.
There are particular problems when a venue is used for
a variety of purposes, and it is recommended that a 11.8 In some situations, the use of white on brown
symbol should not be used in such cases. informatory tourist signs with messages of the type
“for tourist attraction x follow place y” have been used
11.3 In general, non-generic symbols (i.e. those successfully on the approach to junctions and on ring
unique to the attraction) are considered to be not widely roads, and preclude the need for any continuity signing
understood and have little, if any, traffic management until close to the attraction. The new sign diagrams
value. Symbols need to take the form of simple 2217 and 2927.1 are included in TSRGD 2002 for such
silhouettes to be clearly recognisable on traffic signs, use.
and logos adopted for use on stationery and publicity
material are rarely suitable for use on directional signs. 11.9 On all-purpose trunk roads, informatory signs
to the new diagram 2217 may be used provided that all
11.4 The main reason for using symbols is to show the of the following criteria are met:
symbol on the first sign with the tourist destination
name and then use only the symbol on the continuity (1) The sign would normally include only one
signing, thereby usefully reducing the size of attraction. However, it may be appropriate to
subsequent signs. This may be particularly important include two attractions on a sign to diagram 2217
where the destination is incorporated into the main if they have short names and are reached along
advance direction signs at subsequent junctions. The the same route;
use of symbols in this way not only reduces clutter and
environmental intrusion, it also tends to discourage (2) The sign design complies with one of the
applications which may be based on a desire for the permitted options for sign 2217, as shown by the
name to be mentioned regularly, for advertising rather diagrams in Annex A;
than traffic management purposes. Where it is intended
to show the tourist destination name on all of the signs, (3) On the approach to a junction in one direction:
symbols have little value and should be omitted to
(a) no more than one sign to diagram 2217
minimise sign overload. Where space on a sign is
should be used; and
limited (e.g. due to a narrow verge), the combination of
a reduced legend plus a symbol may be appropriate, e.g. (b) it would not normally be appropriate to use
“Axtley Steam Railway” could be shown as “Axtley” a sign to diagram 2217 and also a sign to
plus the steam railway symbol. diagram 2215.
February 2004 11/1

Symbols Part 4 TD 52/04
11.10 One of the permitted options for sign 2217 is

“For tourist attraction x follow symbol y”. This option
is intended for use to minimise sign overload and
reduce the size and number of signs at subsequent
junctions in circumstances where it is not appropriate to
use one of the other options shown in Annex A.
11.11 On motorways, informatory signs to the new

diagram 2927.1 may be used provided that all of the
following criteria are met:
(1) The sign may include only one attraction;
(2) The sign design complies with one of the

permitted options for sign 2927.1, as shown by
the diagrams in Annex A;
(3) On the approach to a junction in one direction:
(a) no more than one sign to diagram 2927.1

should be used; and
(b) it would not normally be appropriate to use

a sign to diagram 2927.1 and also a sign to
diagram 2927.
11.12 Signs to diagrams 2217 and 2927.1 should

normally be located in advance of the first ADS for the
junction.
11/2 February 2004

Part 4 TD 52/04 Excess Signing Demand
12. EXCESS SIGNING DEMAND
12.1 For safety purposes, it is important that

individual signs are not overloaded with information.
For any given speed of vehicle and legend x-height,
there is only a limited quantity of information that can
be safely read by the driver. A maximum number of
tourist destinations per sign is recommended in
paragraph 10.2. In general, priority for tourist signing
on the trunk road network will be given to tourist
destinations with the greatest traffic management or
safety needs, and which cannot be reached simply by
following signs to a town or city on their address.
12.2 If there are more than the maximum

recommended number of qualifying tourist destinations
for the type of road, each with similar traffic
management and safety needs, seeking signing from a
particular junction, the Highways Agency should
consult the Home Traffic Authority (or Authorities) as
to which of these tourist destinations should be signed.
The HTA (or HTAs) should, in turn, consult the
regional and local tourist organisations in formulating
their advice.
12.3 Where existing signing cannot accommodate any

additional destinations, a new applicant will be required
to demonstrate a stronger justification for signing than
at least one of the destinations currently signed. The
HTA, after consulting with regional and local tourist
organisations, should then recommend to the HA which
tourist destinations should continue to be included on a
new or amended sign. The full cost of revising the
signing (including any reimbursements due to other
tourist destination owners or operators in accordance
with paragraph 18.3) shall be met by the successful
applicant.
February 2004 12/1

Part 4 TD 52/04 Bypassed Community and Tourist Facilities Signs
13. BYPASSED COMMUNITY AND TOURIST

FACILITIES SIGNS
13.1 The 1995 tourist signs guidance and amending (4) The direction sign diagram 2329 does not permit
regulations introduced white on brown “bypassed the use of the legend
community” signs as an alternative to local services
signs on all-purpose roads. Their use on motorways is Hotel or Hotel and B & B or B & B.
prohibited by Direction 13(3) of TSRGD 2002.
Bypassed community signs are usually associated with On any sign to diagram 2328, if the lower line on
a break during a journey rather than being the final the sign includes the legend:
destination sought by the driver, and are intended to
provide information about local tourist attractions and Hotel or Hotel and B & B or B&B
the availability of tourist information as well as
facilities. then the bed symbol must be included on the line
above and on any direction signs; and
13.2 Bypassed community signs to diagrams 2328 and
2329 are not intended to be used for destinations that (5) Any other symbols on these signs may be for
are signed as primary destinations because of their tourist attractions or facilities.
strategic traffic importance. New bypassed community
13.5 Bypassed community signs should not be used
signs will not be permitted in future for a destination
where it is more appropriate to use “local facilities”
that is already signed as a primary destination using
signing, i.e. where there is no tourist information
standard directional signing.
facility (TIC or TIP). Local facilities signing is
13.3 The addition of bypassed community signs provided in diagrams 2308.1 and 2309.1 of TSRGD.
should not in future be permitted if they would
duplicate information given on other signs or interrupt
the continuity of standard directional signing. They will
not usually be appropriate for places that have been
signed as forward destinations from the previous
junction.
13.4 On all-purpose trunk roads, bypassed community

signs to diagrams 2328 and 2329 of TSRGD may be
used provided that all of the following criteria are met:
(1) Only small towns or villages with a population of

less than 10,000 may be signed;
(2) The sign design complies with one of the

permitted options for signs 2328 and 2329, as
shown in Annex B;
(3) The signs must include the “i” tourist

information symbol, to indicate a Tourist
Information Point (TIP) or Tourist Information
Centre (TIC), plus at least one tourist attraction
qualifying under the HTA criteria;
February 2004 13/1

Part 4 TD 52/04 Collective Signing of Tourist Attractions
14. COLLECTIVE SIGNING OF TOURIST

ATTRACTIONS
14.1 On all-purpose trunk roads, signs to diagram 14.3 On motorways, signs to diagram 2927 may be
2215 may be used provided that all of the following used provided that all of the following criteria are met:
criteria are met:
(1) Each tourist attraction should qualify individually
(1) Each tourist attraction should qualify individually for the provision of tourist signing;
for the provision of tourist signing;
(2) Such signs may be used to sign qualifying tourist
(2) Such signs may be used to sign qualifying tourist attractions in a town/city or geographical area
attractions in a town/city or geographical area (shown on maps and atlases) reached from the
(shown on maps and atlases) reached from the next junction;
next junction;
(3) The maximum number of tourist attractions on
(3) To ensure that the signs are legible and to the sign must not exceed 3; and
minimise environmental intrusion caused by
large signs (see also paragraph 2.1 of the General (4) The use of a descriptive legend (e.g. historic
Introduction), the maximum number of tourist market town) is not permitted on any part of this
attractions on the sign should not normally sign.
exceed:
14.4 On motorways, signs to diagram 2927 shall not
(i) 4 attractions where the sign is on a road be used (other than in exceptional circumstances) for:
with a speed limit of less than 50 mph;
(a) A town/city that is already signed as a forward
(ii) 3 attractions where the sign is on a road destination at previous junctions; or
with a speed limit of 50 mph or more; and
(b) A town/city that is already signed using standard
(4) The use of a descriptive legend (e.g. historic directional signing on the approach to a junction,
market town) is not permitted on any part of this or at the junction, unless the town/city is signed
sign. from different junctions and this is the
appropriate junction to reach those particular
14.2 Where there are several qualifying tourist attractions.
attractions in (or close to) a town/city, the existing
primary and non-primary directional signs to that town/
city should be sufficient to direct road users to their
intended destination (see paragraph 3.1). Therefore, on
all-purpose trunk roads, signs to diagram 2215 shall
not be used (other than in exceptional circumstances)
for:
(a) A town/city that is already signed as a forward

destination at previous junctions; or
(b) A town/city that is already signed using standard

directional signing on the approach to a junction,
or at the junction, unless the town/city is signed
from different junctions and this is the
appropriate junction to reach those particular
attractions.
February 2004 14/1

Part 4 TD 52/04 Pedestrian Signs
15. PEDESTRIAN SIGNS
15.1 Most pedestrian signs to tourist destinations are

required to include the “walking figure” symbol.
However, the symbol may be omitted from diagram
2607, which would be appropriate for pedestrian areas
away from vehicular traffic.
15.2 Where a comprehensive scheme of pedestrian

signing for tourists is to be implemented in a city, town
or village centre, trunk road pedestrian signing should
be compatible in style (i.e. design and colour) with
signs on the local roads.
February 2004 15/1

Part 4 TD 52/04 Town or Village Boundary Signs
16. TOWN OR VILLAGE BOUNDARY SIGNS
16.1 A new type of boundary sign (diagram 2403.1) is

included in TSRGD 2002, which allows the inclusion
of a brown panel displaying tourist symbols.
16.2 Where this sign is used on all-purpose trunk

roads, the brown tourist panel shall be omitted.
16.3 The sign to diagram 2403.1 is not prescribed for

motorways.
February 2004 16/1

Part 4 TD 52/04 Application Process
17. APPLICATION PROCESS
17.1 A seamless application process is important and 17.6 If a proposed sign is not covered by TSRGD,
should benefit both the applicant and the highway including permitted variants, the authority will need to
authorities involved. Applications for signing should be consider whether an alternative design complying with
made to the HTA (see paragraph 1.6). TSRGD could be used instead or whether there is a case
for applying to the DfT for special signs authorisation.
17.2 The HTA will be responsible for liaising with
each of the other Traffic Authorities (including the 17.7 As a general principle, owners or operators of
Highways Agency) within whose area tourist signing tourist destinations applying for tourist signs are
more distant from the tourist destination has been expected to advertise their establishment, opening
requested. (Where the destination is accessed directly times, the location, accessibility by road and, where
from a trunk road, then the Highways Agency is the appropriate, public transport, through the tourist
HTA and will normally need to consult with the industry. This is likely to include tourist brochures and
surrounding Local Traffic Authorities as well as Route other literature available through TICs. Applicants
Managers in other Highways Agency Area Teams, as should provide evidence of this.
appropriate). This does not mean that the HTA will
decide what is signed in other Traffic Authority (TA)
areas or provide the signs. The purpose of the HTA
liaising with other TAs is to provide a seamless service
to the applicant, but it will need the agreement of the
other TAs before signs can be erected in their areas. In
order to help both the applicant and the co-ordinating
HTA, each TA should make available in writing their
general policy and strategy statement on the provision
of tourist signing.
17.3 When the HA is the HTA, it may be helpful at an

early stage (i.e. prior to the submission of a formal
application) for the Route Manager to have an informal
discussion with the applicant and other Traffic
Authorities, as appropriate, to discuss the potential
viability of the application.
17.4 Since the HTA is the co-ordinator of the

application process, the information required of
applicants by the Highways Agency (if any signs are
proposed for the trunk road network) should be
included within the HTA forms. Annex C gives the
standard application form to be used for all Highways
Agency Areas.
17.5 If an application for the provision of tourist signs

is rejected by the Highways Agency in full or in part,
the applicant should be given a clear and succinct
explanation of the reasons. Vague generalisations are
not helpful. The Highways Agency’s decision regarding
the trunk road network is final.
February 2004 17/1

Part 4 TD 52/04 Financial Arrangements
18. FINANCIAL ARRANGEMENTS
18.1 Information about any HA application fees and

an indication of typical costs of signs will be provided
to HTAs for inclusion in their local guidance for
applicants.
18.2 All tourist signing permitted under the scope of

this guidance should be at the expense of the applicant,
so that the HA incurs no financial burden in allowing
tourist signing on the trunk road network. Section 278
of the Highways Act 1980 [15] provides a means for the
HA to recover its actual costs, including future
maintenance costs.
18.3 A specific tourist signs agreement must be made

between the HA and the applicant prior to the
installation of approved tourist signing. However, signs
may be modified, replaced or removed at any time for
traffic management, safety or other reasons. If it
becomes necessary to remove the trunk road signing to
a destination within the first three years, for reasons
other than the closure of the destination, the applicant
will be entitled to make a claim for re-imbursement of
trunk road sign installation costs on a pro-rata basis for
the outstanding period. After this initial three-year
period, no compensation will be payable.
18.4 Once the signs have been installed, they become

the property of the Highways Agency.
February 2004 18/1

Part 4 TD 52/04 Review of Existing Signs
19. REVIEW OF EXISTING SIGNS
19.1 The continuing suitability of existing signs and

the possible need for modification, replacement or
removal should be kept under review as part of the
overall Route Management Strategy.
19.2 When an existing sign reaches the end of its

serviceable life (as described in TD 25/01) [16] it
should not be replaced automatically. In such a case, the
owner or operator of each tourist destination should be
informed that they will need to submit a new
application for the whole signing package associated
with the destination to the HTA in accordance with this
guidance.
19.3 A new application will also be required where a

route has been altered to the extent that it affects the
tourist eligibility criteria. If the application is
successful, however, the installation and maintenance
costs of the new tourist signs on trunk roads will be met
by the HA. Thereafter, the provisions of paragraph 19.2
will apply to the new signs.
19.4 When a signed tourist destination is closed

permanently, the redundant signs should be removed (or
the appropriate legend covered up in accordance with
the Traffic Signs Manual, Chapter 7, Section 11) as
soon as possible. The HTA will be responsible for
liaising with the Highways Agency and other Traffic
Authorities to co-ordinate this action.
February 2004 19/1

Part 4 TD 52/04 References
20. REFERENCES
1. Traffic Signs to Tourist Attractions and Facilities 11. The Caravan Club. East Grinstead House, East
in England: Guidance for Tourist Signing – General Grinstead, West Sussex, RH19 1UA. Tel: 01342
Introduction. Design Manual for Roads and Bridges, 326944. Website: www.caravanclub.co.uk
Volume 8, Section 2, Part 3: TA 93/04. Department for
Transport and Highways Agency, 2004. 12. The Camping and Caravanning Club. Greenfields
House, Westwood Way, Coventry, CV4 8JH. Tel: 024
2. Traffic Signs to Tourist Attractions and Facilities 7669 4995. Website:
in England: Guidance for Tourist Signing – Local www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk
Roads. Design Manual for Roads and Bridges, Volume
8, Section 2, Part 5: TA 94/04. Department for 13. Quality Standard – British Graded Holiday Parks
Transport and Highways Agency, 2004. Scheme and Quality Standard – Holiday Villages. 2003.
ETC 8198. ISBN 0 86143 256 8. VisitBritain (see
3. Department of Transport Circular Roads 3/95 ref 10 for contact details).
Traffic Signs to Tourist Attractions and Facilities in
England 1995. 14. Local Transport Note 1/94. The Design and Use
of Directional Informatory Signs. July 1994. HMSO.
4. Highways Agency Supplementary Guidance to ISBN 0-11-551 610-7.
CR 3/95: Traffic Signs to Tourist Attractions and
Facilities in England: Criteria for Signs on Trunk Roads 15. The Highways Act, 1980.
and Motorways, 1995.
16. Highways Agency document TD 25/01
5. Tourist Traffic Signs Inside The M25. Guidance Inspection and Maintenance of Traffic Signs on
issued by the Government Offices for the Eastern Motorway and All-Purpose Trunk Roads.
Region, London and the South East and the Highways
Agency on behalf of the Secretary of State for
Transport. February 1997. DTLR and HA.
(DfT, 3/21, Great Minster House, 76 Marsham Street,
London, SW1P 3AH. Tel: 020 7944 2974).
6. Statutory Instruments 2002 No. 3113 The Traffic

Signs Regulations and General Directions 2002. TSO.
ISBN 0-11-042 942-7.
7. Traffic Signs Manual, Chapter 7. The Design of

Traffic Signs. 2003. TSO. ISBN 0-11-552-480-0.
8. Disability Discrimination Act, 1995.
9. Best Practice Guide Visitor Attractions including

core criteria for the Visitor Attraction Quality
Assurance Service. (VAQAS, British Tourism
Association, Toppesfield Hall, Hadleigh, Suffolk, IP7
5DN. Tel: 01473 825 617).
10. National Quality Assurance Scheme. Quality

Standard – Hotel, Townhouse and Travel
Accommodation. 2003. ETC 8071. Quality Standard –
Guest Accommodation. 2003. ETC 8072. VisitBritain
(Fulfilment Centre, PO Box 22489, London, W6 9FR.
Tel: 0870 606 7204. Email:
[email protected])
February 2004 20/1

Part 4 TD 52/04 Bibliography
21. BIBLIOGRAPHY
a) Action for Attractions. November 2000. ISBN f) Planning Policy Guidance 19. Outdoor
0 86143 233 9. English Tourism Council. (VisitBritain, Advertisement Control, published in 1992. HMSO.
Fulfilment Centre, PO Box 22489, London, W6 9FR. ISBN 0-11-752 555-3.
Tel: 0870 606 7204. Email:
[email protected]). g) Planning Policy Guidance 21. Tourism, published
in 1992. HMSO. ISBN 0-11-752-7262-2.
b) Department of the Environment Circular 5/92
Town and Country Planning (Control of Advertisements) h) Resource, The Council for Museums, Archives
Regulations 1992. HMSO. ISBN 0-11-752 567-7. and Libraries. 16, Queen Anne’s Gate, London, SW1H
9AA. Tel: 020 7273 1444. Website:
c) Department of the Environment Circular 15/94 www.resource.gov.uk.
Town and Country Planning (Control of
Advertisements) (Amendment) Regulations 1994. i) Road Traffic Regulation Act (Section 122), 1984.
HMSO. ISBN 0-11-752 965-6.
j) Statutory Instruments 1992 No. 666 Town and
d) Other National Quality Assurance Standards: Country Planning (Control of Advertisements)
Regulations 1992. HMSO. ISBN 0-11-023 666-1.
Quality Standard – Restaurant with Rooms. 2003 ETC
8165 ISBN 0 86143 237 1. k) Statutory Instruments 1994 No. 2351 Town and
Country Planning (Control of Advertisements)
Quality Standard – Self Catering Accommodation. (Amendment) Regulations 1994. HMSO.
2001. ETC 8073. ISBN 0-11-045 351-4.
Quality Standard – Campus Accommodation. 2001. l) Tourism and Transport. The issues and the
ETC 8244. ISBN 0 86143 248 7. solutions. 2001. ISBN 0 86143 254 1. English Tourism
Council. (see ref (a) above for contact details).
Quality Standard – Hostels (including Group Hostels,
Bunkhouses and Camping Barns) 2002. ETC 8244. m) Tourist Signing – Two Years On. December 1999.
ISBN 0 86143 237 1. County Surveyors’ Society, Environment Committee,
Traffic Management Working Group. S2/GEN/1.
Quality Standard – Hire Craft: Narrowboats & Broad (David C Harvey, CSS Honorary Secretary, County
Beam Boats. 2003 (Visit Heart of England (Tourist Hall, Matlock, Derbyshire, DE4 3AG. Tel: 01629 58
Board) Larkhill Road, Worcester, WR5 2EF, 0000, ex 7111).
Tel: 01905 761100).
n) Tourism Without Traffic. A good practice guide,
Quality Standard – Hotel Boats. 2003. (Visit Heart of Transport 2000 Trust, September 2001. ISBN 0 907347
England – contact as above). 57 6. (Transport 2000 Trust, The Impact Centre, 12 – 18
Hoxton Street, London, N1 6NG. Tel: 020 7613 0743.
Accessibility Standard – Serviced, Self-Catering, Hostel Website: www.transport2000.org.uk)
and Campus Accommodation. 2003. ETC 8290, ISBN 0
86143 264 9 (Standards for guests with hearing, visual o) Traffic Signs to Tourist Attractions and Facilities
or mobility impairment). in England – Guidance for Traffic Authorities. 1996.
County Surveyors’ Society, Environment Committee,
Accessibility Standard – Caravan Holiday Homes & Traffic Management Working Group. ENV/2-96. (see
Parks 2002. ETC 8306, ISBN 0 86143 264 9 (Standard ref m) above for contact details).
for guests with mobility impairment) (being revised in
2003).
e) Our countryside: the future - a fair deal for rural

England. DETR White Paper, November 2000. HMSO.
www.defra.gov.uk/rural/ruralwp/default.htm
February 2004 21/1

Part 4 TD 52/04 Enquiries
22. ENQUIRIES
All technical enquiries or comments on this Standard should be sent in writing as appropriate to:
Chief Highway Engineer

The Highways Agency
123 Buckingham Palace Road
London G CLARKE
SW1W 9HA Chief Highway Engineer
Chief Road Engineer

Scottish Executive
Victoria Quay
Edinburgh J HOWISON
EH6 6QQ Chief Road Engineer
Chief Highway Engineer

Transport Directorate
Welsh Assembly Government
Llywodraeth Cynulliad Cymru
Crown Buildings J R REES
Cardiff Chief Highway Engineer
CF10 3NQ Transport Directorate
Director of Engineering
The Department for Regional Development
Roads Service
Clarence Court
10-18 Adelaide Street G W ALLISTER
Belfast BT2 8GB Director of Engineering
February 2004 22/1

Volume 8 Section 2 Annex A
Part 4 TD 52/04 Options for Sign Diagrams 2217 and 2927.1
ANNEX A OPTIONS FOR SIGN DIAGRAMS

2217 AND 2927.1
(Refer to paragraph 11.8 to 11.12)
(i) All-purpose trunk roads (diagram 2217) and motorways (diagram 2927.1)
February 2004 A/1

Annex A Volume 8 Section 2
Options for Sign Diagrams 2217 and 2927.1 Part 4 TD 52/04
(ii) All-purpose trunk roads (diagram 2217)
A/2 February 2004

Volume 8 Section 2 Annex A
Part 4 TD 52/04 Options for Sign Diagrams 2217 and 2927.1
(iii) Motorways (diagram 2927.1)
February 2004 A/3

Volume 8 Section 2 Annex B
Part 4 TD 52/04 Options for Sign Diagrams 2328 and 2329
ANNEX B OPTIONS FOR SIGN DIAGRAMS

2328 AND 2329
(Refer to paragraph 13.4)
Diagram 2328 Diagram 2329
Option 1
Maximum number of symbols on these signs: 6 i + 5 tourist destinations.
Option 2
Maximum number of symbols on these signs: 5 i + 4 tourist destinations.
Option 3
Maximum number of symbols on these signs: 5 i + bed symbol + 3 tourist destinations.
February 2004 B/1

Annex B Volume 8 Section 2
Options for Sign Diagrams 2328 and 2329 Part 4 TD 52/04
Option 4
Maximum number of symbols on these signs: 4 i + bed symbol + 2 tourist destinations.
All Options
Winford Cross 100% x-height.

historic market town 80% x-height.
size of symbols to be appropriate for 100% x-height.
Hotel and B & B 100% x-height.
Options 1 and 2
In options 1 and 2, one of the tourist attractions may be replaced by the bed symbol which must be to the
immediate right of the “i” symbol. It is not necessary to show the legend “Hotel and B&B” when the bed symbol is
shown, but “Hotel and B&B” (or as varied) must not be shown without the bed symbol.
B/2 February 2004

Volume 8 Section 2 Annex C
Part 4 TD 52/04 Highways Agency Standard Application Form for Tourist Signs on Trunk Roads
ANNEX C HIGHWAYS AGENCY STANDARD

APPLICATION FORM FOR TOURIST
SIGNS ON TRUNK ROADS
(Refer to paragraph 17.4)
February 2004 C/1

Annex C Volume 8 Section 2
Highways Agency Standard Application Form for Tourist Signs on Trunk Roads Part 4 TD 52/04
Application for Signing a Tourist Destination from the All-Purpose and

Motorway Trunk Road Network
The purpose of this form is to provide the information necessary for the Highways Agency (HA) to consider whether proposals for white on
brown signs on the all-purpose and motorway trunk road network meet the HA’s requirements for signing generally and would be appropriate
at the proposed location(s). Section A is to be completed by the applicant (or the applicant’s agent) and the form sent to the Home Traffic
Authority (HTA) for completion of Section B. The form is then to be forwarded as soon as possible to the HA for completion of Sections C
and D.
Section A: Tourist Destination Information (submitted by the Applicant)
A1 Tourist destination: Name:
Address:
Post Code:
Telephone No (for public enquiries):
A2 Type of tourist destination.
A3 Visitor numbers per annum
and data source.
A4 Please provide details of No. of spaces for: On site Within 250m
parking facilities on site or Cars
close by (within 250m). Coaches
Disabled
A5 If it is a tourist attraction, does it meet the requirements of paragraph 3.7 of the Trunk Roads Guidance? Yes/No/
If not, please provide details separately. NA*
A6 If it is a tourist attraction, is it accredited by the Quality Assurance scheme run by the English Tourism Yes/No/
Council? If yes, please provide a copy of accreditation documentation. NA*
A7 Please give details of
opening hours including
seasonal variations.
A8 What are the reasons for
the proposed signs?
A9 Please provide plans showing the location of the tourist destination (including access to and egress from the public
highway) and details of existing and proposed signing on the trunk and local road networks:
• key plan (e.g. 1:5000 scale)
• location plans (e.g. 1:1250 scale)
• sign face detail drawings or photographs
A10 On a separate sheet of paper, please provide any other relevant information which may support your application for
tourist signs. Please also provide examples of publicity material.
A11 Please provide contact Name:
details of: applicant/agent Company:
of applicant*. Address:
Telephone no: Fax no:
*delete as E-mail:
appropriate
Signature:
Please send the completed form and supporting information to the Home Traffic Authority in whose area the tourist destination is situated.
(This should be sent together with the relevant Home Traffic Authority information required for applications on local roads).
C/2 February 2004

Section B: Evaluation by the Home Traffic Authority (HTA)
B1 Name of tourist destination.
B2 Route number or name on which tourist Route No:

destination is located and OS Grid Ref. OS Grid Ref:
B3 Have the data in Section A been verified? Yes/No
B4 Have all the details requested in A9 been Yes/No
provided and are they adequate? If not, return the
application form to the applicant.
B5 Is the route proposed for signing the most Yes/No
suitable route between the tourist destination and
the trunk road? If not, please give reasons.
B6 Do the access to and egress from the public Yes/No
highway comply with current standards?
B7 Is the destination currently signed from any Yes/No
other HA junction as a tourist destination or as a
local destination using standard direction signs?
If Yes, please give details.
B8 Are there any other tourist destinations nearby Yes/No
which are likely to request similar signing from
the same junction or nearby?
If Yes, please give details.
B9 Are there any existing signs which may need to Yes/No
be altered, as part of these proposals.
If Yes, please provide details.
B10 What is the traffic management and/or safety
case for the proposed signs on the trunk road?
B11 Does this application comply with the policy statements of the HTA? If not, please append details. Yes/No
B12 Does this application comply with the policy statements of the regional and local tourist organisations? Yes/No
If not, please append details.
B13 Does this application comply with the policy statements in the Trunk Roads Guidance document? Yes/No
If not, please append details.
B14 Will the local traffic authority be providing continuity signing from the Trunk Road network to the Yes/No
tourist destination? If not, please append reasons.
B15 Have you attached the relevant supporting information including the key plan, location plans and sign Yes/No
face drawings?
B16 On a separate sheet of paper, please give any other relevant information which will assist the Highways Agency in the
consideration of this application.
B17 Please provide Name:
details of the Authority:
relevant contact Address:
person at the HTA.
Telephone no: Fax no:

E-mail:
Signature:
Please send the completed form and all supporting information to: (HA Route Manager Name and Address)
February 2004 C/3

Annex C Volume 8 Section 2
Highways Agency Standard Application Form for Tourist Signs on Trunk Roads Part 4 TD 52/04
Section C: Evaluation by the Highways Agency

Please give reasons for your answer to each of the questions in the checklist below. Make a separate report if there is
insufficient space.
C1 Name of tourist destination
C2 Is the core information in Sections A Yes/No

and B complete? If additional
information is needed please give
details.
C3 Does the required supporting Yes/No

information accompany this form?
C4 Has the appropriate HTA agreed to Yes/No

continuity signing from the trunk road
network to the destination which is
consistent with the signs proposed for
the trunk road network? If not, please
give details.
C5 Do you agree with the HTA’s view on Yes/No

the traffic management/safety need for
the proposed sign(s)? If not please
give details.
C6 Does this proposal reduce the Yes/No

effectiveness of the existing traffic
signs? If Yes, please give details.
C7 Could the proposed signs compromise Yes/No

road safety (e.g. does the junction
already have a poor accident record)?
Will the proposed signs encourage
undesirable right turns or other
inappropriate vehicle manoeuvres?
If so, please give details.
C/4 February 2004

Section D: Decision by the Highways Agency
D1 Name of tourist destination
D2 This application is: Accepted/Rejected.
Please state reasons:
Signature: Date:
Name:
Position:
Area Team:
Address:
Telephone:
Fax:
E-mail:
The HA will inform the HTA of its decision by returning a copy of this form when all sections have been completed and it has received the
necessary supporting information.
Any approval is valid for a period of 6 months from the date entered in Section D above and will lapse if the relevant signing agreement(s)
have not been returned for the HA’s signature within this time.
February 2004 C/5

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DESIGN MANUAL FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES

VOLUME 8 TRAFFIC SIGNS AND

TRAFFIC SIGNS TO TOURIST

TOURIST SIGNING - TRUNK ROADS

This Standard contains guidance on the provision of

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE

This is a new document to be incorporated into the

1. Remove existing contents pages for Volume 8.

2. Insert new contents pages for Volume 8, dated

3. Insert TD 52/04 into Volume 8, Section 2, Part 4.

4. Please archive this sheet as appropriate.

Note: A quarterly index with a full set of Volume

THE HIGHWAYS AGENCY

WELSH ASSEMBLY GOVERNMENT

THE DEPARTMENT FOR REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Traffic Signs to Tourist Attractions

Tourist Signing - Trunk Roads

VOLUME 8 TRAFFIC SIGNS AND

TRAFFIC SIGNS TO TOURIST

TOURIST SIGNING - TRUNK ROADS

14. Collective Signing of Tourist Attractions

1.4 White on brown directional signs are traffic signs

February 2004 1/1

2. DEFINITION OF A TOURIST DESTINATION

2.1 During the recent revision of TSRGD the

A tourist destination means a permanently established

(a) attracts or is used by visitors to an area; and

(b) is open to the public without prior booking

2.2 Tourist attractions include visitor centres,

2.3 Tourist facilities include hotels, guesthouses,

2.4 These are not exhaustive lists, but give a broad

February 2004 2/1

3. SIGNING POLICY CRITERIA

February 2004 3/1

3.10 It is important to ensure that there is consistency

3/2 February 2004

4. QUALITY OF TOURIST DESTINATIONS

4.1 The Highways Agency is not responsible for

4.2 For example, there is now a voluntary “Visitor

4.3 It is also recommended that, where possible,

February 2004 4/1

5. TOURIST ATTRACTION VISITOR NUMBERS

Other motorways 200,000

Dual carriageways with grade separated

Other dual carriageways 100,000

Single carriageways 40,000

5.2 Visitor attractions which do not meet the annual

5.3 On lengths of high-speed dual carriageway

5.4 Some flexibility should be exercised concerning

February 2004 5/1

6.1 New tourist signs, in conjunction with other

6.2 In environmentally sensitive areas such as

February 2004 6/1

7. COUNTRY TOURS, TOURIST ROUTES AND

7.2 Where a linear route has been designated as a

7.3 National Parks and areas that are marketed under

February 2004 7/1

8. TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES AND

8.2 As the “i” symbol can be used to mean either a