Traffic management frequently asked questions

What is traffic calming?
Traffic calming relates to physical measures on roads to control traffic speeds. It can be vertical (road humps, Berlin cushions) and horizontal (build-outs, chicanes) deflections.

Who sets speed limits?
The County Council consults with the police and local community before introducing speed limits. The police are responsible for enforcing these limits.

Where can I find out more about safety cameras or speed cameras?
Follow the link on this page to the ‘Safer Roads Partnership in West Mercia’ website.

How are locations for pedestrian crossings selected?
Pedestrian crossings are normally either zebra, pelican, toucan or puffin crossings which aim to improve pedestrian safety and access.

They tend to be installed as the result of traffic and road usage studies which count the number of cars using the road and the number of people trying to cross at a specific point.

If you think there should be a crossing on a road near you please contact us.

Who deals with road signs?
The traffic management team deals with signs and road markings for new projects. The local divisional highways offices deal with their maintenance.

How can I get a tourist sign put up?
Tourism signs help the public to find tourist attractions and some businesses. Attached to this page is a copy of the County Council’s policy on tourism signing and an application form. Alternatively you may complete the application form over the phone with a customer service adviser by dialling 08456 789018. There is a £75 charge for consideration of an application. This can be paid via credit card if completing an application over the phone, or by cheque (payable to 'Shropshire County Council') if applying by mail. We strongly advise applicants to speak to a member of the traffic engineering team before completing the application form.

Who looks after street furniture?
The traffic management team deals with all new road sign requests and the local highways divisions deal with the maintenance of existing signs. For all other 'street furniture' enquires including:

• seating in public places
• flower beds and flower baskets
• litter bins

You will need to contact your local council by following the link on this page.

What are structural and environmental weight limits?
In order to control the movement of lorries through the county a number of restrictions have been, and will continue to be, introduced. Structural weight limits are brought in when the condition of a bridge or road is inadequate to take the weight of lorries and their loads. Restrictions are normally set at 7.5 tonnes.

Environmental weight limits and lorry bans are introduced in close consultation with local communities and road haulage groups. These aim to improve the quality of life for the communities by reducing the intrusion of lorries into residential areas.

What are disabled drivers' parking bays?
If a resident is disabled, has a Blue Badge and does not have a driveway, garage or off-street parking place, they may apply to have a parking bay marked on the highway outside their home (an application form is attached to this page). Alternatively you may complete the application form over the phone with a Customer Service adviser by dialling 08456 789018. Disabled bays are only advisory and other drivers may still use them if they wish.

Can I stop vehicles from parking and blocking my access?
You may request a "H-Bar" marking outside your property. These markings indicate to drivers that they should not park. They are only advisory however.