Although horizontal deflections have been used as an alternative to vertical deflections in some traffic calming schemes, results have been mixed. Little research had been undertaken on this subject in the UK, so designs have tended to be based on details obtained from work in other countries. Such designs do not always translate well from one country to another, because of differing conditions. This leaflet summarises the information currently available, including results from the track trials carried out by the Transport Research Laboratory. Doubts which existed over the legality of some traffic calming devices were removed by amendments to the Highways Act 1980 made by the Traffic Calming Act 1992. This allowed the Secretary of State to make regulations giving clear legal authority to construct a wide range of horizontal deflection features. These include build cuts, pinch points, chicanes, islands and overrun areas. Any measures not covered by the regulations can be considered for special authorisation. (A)
Abstract