Road tunnel signs
These lane control signs will be found above each traffic lane at, or on, the approach to the entrance to a road tunnel and at regular intervals inside a road tunnel. When the signs are operational, the amber lights at the top, and at the bottom, will flash in turn.
A green arrow pointing down means the lane is open and it is permitted to proceed in that lane.
A red X means the lane is closed. You must stop. You must not pass this sign. It has the same effect as a stop sign.
A green arrow pointing to the left means you must move into the left-hand lane. In doing so you must observe the general rules of the road relating to safely changing lanes.
A green arrow pointing to the right means you must move into the right-hand lane. In doing so you must observe the general rules of the road relating to safely changing lanes.
The following sign means that goods vehicles and large non-passenger vehicles with three or more axles cannot use the right-hand lane of the carriageway. You must travel in the left-hand lane of the carriageways in a road tunnel.
The regulation does not apply when:
- a red X is displayed over the left-hand lane, which means the lane must not be used
- a green arrow is displayed over the left-hand lane, which directs all vehicles to use the left-hand lane, or
- the left-hand lane is blocked.
There are two forms of speed limit signs in tunnels.
- A standard speed limit sign applies where there is a fixed speed limit in a tunnel. You must obey the speed limit and remember this is the maximum permitted speed, not the required speed.
- Where the speed limit can vary in a tunnel, you will see a variable
message sign, which is a black square with a red circle and figures in
white or yellow. The speed limit is shown by the numbers and will vary
according to traffic conditions and road safety considerations. You must obey the speed limit and remember this is the maximum permitted
speed, not the required speed.
