In a startling revelation, the British government secretly drew up ambitious and costly plans to systematically replace European-style road signs across the nation in the wake of Brexit, an investigation can exclusively reveal.
The Department for Transport (DfT) commissioned a comprehensive review of all traffic signs and regulations that originated from the European Union. This review, obtained through a Freedom of Information (FOI) request, laid the groundwork for a potential wholesale overhaul of the UK's signage system.
The Ambitious Post-Brexit Overhaul
The project, which carried a hefty price tag estimated to run into the millions of pounds, was a direct consequence of the UK's departure from the EU. It aimed to identify and replace any signage that bore the hallmark of EU standards or directives.
This would have included a wide range of familiar signs, such as those indicating:
- Weight and height restrictions for lorries
- Low emission zones in city centres
- Standardised symbols for tourist attractions and services
A Quietly Abandoned Strategy
Despite the significant resources poured into the initial review, the bold plan was ultimately quietly shelved. Officials concluded that such a widespread change would be prohibitively expensive and cause immense disruption for drivers, with the costs far outweighing any perceived symbolic benefit of a 'Brexit dividend'.
The FOI disclosure highlights the often hidden and complex administrative work that followed the 2016 referendum result. It exposes the tension between ideological desires for a clean break from EU standards and the stark practical and financial realities of implementing such changes.
What This Means for British Drivers
For now, motorists can breathe a sigh of relief. The familiar landscape of British roads will remain unchanged. This decision represents a pragmatic approach, prioritising cost-effectiveness and driver familiarity over a politically-motivated makeover.
The abandoned plan serves as a fascinating 'what if' in the story of post-Brexit Britain, illustrating the vast number of regulations—both large and small—that were scrutinised following the historic vote to leave the European Union.
