5.13 Road Markings

In general, road markings create unnecessary visual clutter on the road and are intrusive, particularly in rural settings.

Where possible, designers should instead use different materials or horizontal elements to demarcate speed changes, parking zones and other streetscape elements.

Markings also imply vehicle priority and must be omitted where streets and junctions seek to create pedestrian priority.

Centre line markings should be omitted from carriageways of 6.5m wide or less, or where the design speed is 30mph or under.

On rural roads, up to the national speed limit, the centre line should be removed in conjunction with the use of edge of carriageway markings. This helps to create a rural feel, a less vehicle dominated environment, and perceived reduction in road width and thus vehicle speeds.