A junction has been criticised by locals after it has been given a £5.5million artistic makeover.
Locals say the junction does not feel safe and will cause “a lot of confusion”.
The California Crossroads in Finchampstead, Berkshire, features a colourful design and patterns rather than traditional road markings which has caused concern for drivers.
Wokingham Borough Council spent £5.5 million on the design, which contains a zebra crossing and a roundabout, has been branded a “playground” by locals, reports The Telegraph.
It was redesigned between February and September 2024 with the aim of making it more pedestrian-friendly.
Standardised road markings have not been used for the road design which has caused concern among those in the area.
The crossing features colourful leaves instead of thick white stripes which are usually seen on roundabouts.
Peter Harper, a Conservative councillor representing Finchampstead, submitted a petition criticising the redesign to the council on Thursday.
The petition, signed by 1,446 people, said: “The recently finished project doesn’t use standard road markings detailed in the Highway Code and is instead painted with coloured leaves and abstract patterns.
“This is causing confusion amongst drivers and pedestrians about how to use the junction.
“The inclusion of raised platforms was to slow traffic on the approach to the junction but these are too low to be effective, allowing cars to negotiate the junction at high speed.
“This petition is calling for Wokingham borough council to paint roundabouts and zebra crossings on the junction and to raise the speed bumps to slow down traffic on the approaches.
“These improvements will reduce the risk of a serious accident on this junction.”
Andrew Rock, a local driving instructor, told BBC Radio Berkshire: “I don’t think it’s a good idea.
“I think it should conform to more standards that people are used to because road safety is critical.”
Mr Rock, who had been teaching at the junction on Saturday, said he observed “a lot of confusion” and slower moving traffic.
One local complained on social media, writing: “Looks like a playground!! So deadly for children who are going to think they can play in the road.”
A spokesman for the council said: “The California Crossroads improvement work is making the area a more pleasant place for pedestrians and cyclists while keeping the traffic moving.
“There are always concerns when the new junction layout is introduced.
“The scheme has followed Department for Transport safety standards throughout.
“As long as drivers are careful and follow the Highway Code as they should, the junction will be as safe as any other.”
