Electronic message signs :Cross Stitch – Travel and transport

There are nearly 3,000 electronic message signs (or variable message signs) on England’s trunk road and motorway network. Learn what the different signs mean and how they work with automatic traffic management systems.

Electronic message signs appear across the system and can show different messages as needed.

They come in various sizes: from smaller post-mounted signals on the central reservation to large signs on overhead gantries. There are even mobile electronic message signs that can be used to display real-time traffic information where there are no fixed signs available.

Their aim is to improve road safety and reduce the impact of congestion by giving drivers up-to-the-minute information about road and traffic conditions.

They display, among other things:

• variable speed limits set in response to traffic conditions ahead
• warnings to drivers of incidents, roadworks or congestion ahead
• estimated journey times or delay times
• alternative route information
• safety messages

Around 500 electronic message signs are placed at key driver decision points. This is so you can use information about conditions on the road ahead to change your route if necessary.

The signs are used only for messages that can help drivers – never for unnecessary information or advertising.