Derbyshire County Council reveals cost of Chesterfield’s new digital road signs

Five digital road signs have been installed at various locations.

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A Derbyshire County Council spokesperson said: “We were awarded Government money to help improve vehicle flow and ease congestion.

“The signs are part of this project and aim to help people find out which car parks have spaces free.

“The signs can also be used for other messages for road users.

“They cost in the region of £55,000 each to buy and install.”

The signs have been erected on Saltergate, Lordsmill Street, Brewery Street and at the West Bars and Donut roundabouts.

Mixed opinions have been given on our Facebook page.

Emily Jane said: “I love them. I think they’re great. The old signs have green moss over them making them hard to read. These are very bright and clear and have no chance of fading over time.”

Sally-Ann Bowen said: “These will let you know about roadworks in advance and how many car parking spaces are left at different car parks – plus other things updated straight away so you can avoid a specific area.”

But Helen Ringrose said: “So let's all take our eyes off the road to read all the information on these signs. Hmm, sounds like a good idea when travelling at speed.”

James Whittaker said: “The money would have been better spent on sorting the potholes everywhere.”

The signs are not the only high-tech devices to have been introduced on Chesterfield’s highways lately – a touch-free pedestrian crossing was recently unveiled on Saltergate.

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A message from Phil Bramley, Derbyshire Times editor

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