DRIVERS ROUND THE BEND

Motorists thought it was a mistake when they saw wibbly wobbly lines down a village road.

But it was no error - highways chiefs had them painted like that to make the road safer.


However, motoring organisations say they would have the opposite effect and increase the likelihood of an accident.

Officials believed the lines would force drivers to slow down because they would think the road in East Boldre, Hants, was narrower than it is.

Edmund King, executive director of the RAC Foundation said: "This really sounds bizarre. It is more likely to confuse motorists than slow them down.

"Motorists could be forced out into the middle of the road if they think the area inside the line is part of the pavement.

"If drivers are distracted by wondering why there are wobbly white lines it might increase the risk of an accident."

Resident Ian Stead,61, said when he first saw the lines he thought they had been painted by a drunk.

"There is no sense to it at all. Consensus in the village is that it is utterly stupid," said Mr Stead.

Hampshire County Council said the lines were the cheapest way to reduce speeding.

But a spokeswoman said: "The effect is more pronounced that we envisaged.

"We will be taking a closer look and make adjustments where appropriate."