This article documents the process adopted, when a request was made to the Lighting and Signs Section to investigate alternative methods of providing traffic islands with illuminated bollards for an English urban local authority. Two areas of concern led to this investigation: (1) the increased use of traffic islands for traffic management schemes; and (2) damage to existing electricity supply cables feeding traffic islands, for example from the installation of cable television. The provision of conventional islands, using concrete kerbs and mains voltage bollards, was costly, labour-intensive, and disruptive to traffic flow. An alternative low-voltage arrangement was investigated, which gives an extremely safe electrical installation, and is especially beneficial on traffic islands that are exceptionally vulnerable to vehicular impact. Those involved in the consultation were concerned that any installation should have a good aesthetic appearance, and that the original proposed steel construction was not appropriate. The island was required to house fixings for an illuminated bollard, made of a durable material but easy to install; the use of glass-reinforced plastic was recommended, allowing almost any finish colour. Supply and installation costs indicate a cost saving from the conventional arrangement of over 1000 pounds.
Abstract