Backlash as signposts installed ahead of 20mph rollout

But signs 'could be 20mph or 30mph', says DoI

An Onchan MHK has criticised the infrastructure minister and her department, claiming they have "lost control" of the 20mph rollout, and are beginning to lose the trust of the public.

Rob Callister shared a photo of signposts recently installed in Douglas and Onchan, which are reportedly intended for the new speed limits, raising concerns their placement could be difficult for people with disabilities and those using prams.

He also pointed out the public consultation on the new speed limits is still ongoing and won’t conclude until July.

Mr Callister says it's time for an intervention:

The department has confirmed the pole was placed incorrectly by its contractor, and will be rectified at no cost to the DoI.

'The installation of the poles does not mean that any decisions have been taken around the speed limit for that location.' - DOI Spokesperson

In response, the Department of Infrastructure says: 'The Department is currently consulting with Onchan and Douglas residents around the implementation of additional 20mph speed limits in the area to fulfil the Tynwald resolution that residential areas across the Island should default to 20mph.

'An online platform has been created where people can view the proposals and leave feedback by clicking on the particular road they wish to comment on. Find it here: https://iom.traffweb.app/traffweb/2/PublicConsultation

 'A series of maps has also been produced which illustrate the extent of the proposals before and after implementation. They can be viewed in detail at the following venues until Friday 4 July:

•                     Onchan Commissioners office

•                     Onchan Library

•                     Douglas City Hall

•                     Henry Bloom Noble Library

•                     Sea Terminal, Douglas

 'Feedback should be provided by email to tro@gov.im or by post to the Traffic Regulation Order team, Department of Infrastructure, Highway Services, Sea Terminal Building, Douglas, IM1 2RF.

 'Following the completion of the consultation on Friday, 4 July and subsequent analysis of all feedback, the draft Traffic Regulation Order can be updated, incorporating any necessary changes to the speed limits.

 'Only after this decision-making process has been completed will 20mph or 30mph signs be attached to both new and existing poles.

 'Additional poles have been installed in some locations as the Department is aware that these poles may have to hold signs which either introduce a new speed limit or repeater signs for existing limits, depending on the outcome of the consultation.'

'The installation of the poles does not mean that any decisions have been taken around the speed limit for that location.

'It is instead a reflection that the installation of poles is a time-consuming but necessary process.'

'Mr Callister has highlighted a pole that has been incorrectly located by the Department’s contractor, CCJ Limited. This is a defect as defined under the contract, and will be corrected at no cost to the Department.'

(Picture: Signpost recently installed on Hillberry Road, Onchan. Credit: Manx Radio)

STREET FURNITURE

Meanwhile, a charity supporting individuals with vision loss says that street furniture can sometimes pose obstacles for people with visual impairments.

Chief Executive of Sight Matters, Cathryn Bradley, says overgrown hedges and damaged pavements can increase the risk of trips and falls, potentially causing injury.

She also notes that pavement obstructions can create serious difficulties not only for those with sight loss, but for many others as well: