UK town's new £2m roundabout so confusing drivers sent video on how to use it

A major £2million roundabout with an innovative design will open to drivers in weeks, with council officials even launching a virtual tour as locals express huge confusion over the scheme. A new Dutch-style roundabout will launch on Boundary Way, Hemel Hempstead, on June 2, after months of work come to an end.

A Dutch-style roundabout is unique in the UK with only a handful already installed across the country. Popular in the Netherlands, the layout prioritises cyclists and pedestrians with a series of zebra crossings over a separate outer lane away from vehicles. A similar system has already been installed in Cambridge and Sheffield, with Hertfordshire becoming the latest region to adopt the new design. However, the unique pattern has left many confused with council chiefs launching a virtual video to talk motorists through the changes step-by-step.

According to the council, the project will connect the two completed sections of the new 'Quiteway' route.

The new roundabout has been installed alongside a new toucan crossing on the A414 Breakspear Way. The council claims the area could see over 11,000 new homes built and 10,000 new jobs by 2050.

The virtual video explained: "When cycling, slow down as you approach the roundabout, Stay alert, look out for others cycling. Cycle clockwise around the outer ring, the same direction as you would any other roundabout.

“Watch for any vehicles entering or exiting the roundabout. They should give way to you but always be attentive. As you exit the roundabout, give way to people walking or wheeling.

"When driving, be prepared to give way to people walking or riding bikes. Be attentive and watch out for people walking and cycling as you exit."

One angry local resident hit back at the new road layout, telling The Daily Mail: "It would be great for some drivers to understand how to use a normal roundabout [let alone] this complicated traffic congesting 'PC' design to accommodate cyclists that still don’t stop at a give way point anyway."

Other comments included "Looks more than confusing!! and "This will only cause accidents and mayhem being also an experiment at citizens' cost."

Another person said: "Pedestrian or bicycle traffic virtually non-existent. There should be an inquiry into who devised and approved this massively expensive and crazy project."

Mark Doran, Executive Director of Growth and Environment at Hertfordshire County Council said: "Hemel residents are no strangers to an innovative roundabout, so we’re pleased that work on Boundary Way is nearing completion, on time, and we’re keen to support our residents in becoming familiar with the layout so that everyday journeys are as smooth and safe as possible.

"We’d also like to thank businesses and residents for their continued patience as construction has been ongoing.

"It’s clear we all need to travel more sustainably to help manage congestion, improve our health and air quality in the county and keep our roads in a better condition for longer.

"Small changes could make a big difference now and for future generations as plans for housing and business development in the area progress."