period indicating when the exceptions apply (if different from the zone operational period) may be added to diagrams 618.2 and 618.3. It is recommended that where more than one exception is shown on the sign, each applies for the same time period, otherwise the sign becomes complex and difficult for a driver to assimilate. If different time periods are required for each exception, it is likely to be more appropriate to use the variable message sign to diagram 618.3A. The design of the exception panel is shown on the appropriate working drawings (see para 1.9). Note that the panel dividers are always the same width as the sign border.
| Permitted exceptions | Diagram 618.2 | Diagram 618.3 | Diagram 618.3A |
|---|---|---|---|
| No exceptions (omit panel—blank panel for diagram 618.3A) | YES | NO | YES |
| Except for loading | NO | YES | YES |
| Except for loading by plus goods vehicle symbol | YES | YES | YES |
| Except plus blue badge symbol (disabled badge holders) | YES | YES | YES |
| Except permit holders plus identification symbol where appropriate | YES | YES | YES |
| Except buses | YES | YES | YES |
| Except local buses | YES | YES | YES |
| Except taxis | NO | YES | YES |
| Except for access | NO | NO | YES |
11.8 If the restrictions change during the day or on different days of the week, a variable message sign to diagram 618.3A is recommended to avoid complex legend that can be confusing and difficult to read. These can be simple flap—type signs or automatically timed rotating planks or prisms. Light—emitting variable message signs are not normally suitable for this type of sign. The sign should show a complete blank grey or black face, as prescribed by regulation 58(1), during the times when the zone is not operational. The bottom panel cannot be shown by itself, nor can it be omitted when the other parts of the sign are being displayed. Where waiting restrictions apply for a period longer than the zone operational period, they should be indicated by signs and markings within the zone in accordance with section 6; they are shown in the bottom panel of the sign to diagram 618.3A only when the zone is operational.
11.9 During the period that entry into the zone is prohibited, the centre panel of the sign to diagram 618.3A may be varied at different times of day to show the appropriate exceptions. This panel has a fixed size which is determined by the tallest legend to be shown. When there are no exceptions, the panel should have a white background with no legend. The permitted variant "Except for access", on its own or combined with another exception, should not be displayed for the whole period the zone is operational. It is likely that this would attract too many vehicles and could compromise pedestrian safety. It could also make parking enforcement difficult in fully paved roads where yellow lines are not provided (see paras 11.14 and 11.15). General access should be permitted only at times when it is deemed essential. Where access is required at all times, the road should be signed in accordance with section 5 and not as a pedestrian zone. It should be noted that "Except for access" is not a permitted variant of either diagram 618.2 or 618.3. A disadvantage of using a variable message sign is that it does not inform drivers when the period during which access is permitted comes to an end.
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