Case Study: Low Profile Rumble Strips for Northumberland County Council

Background

The rolling hills of Northumberland conceal a large number of quaint villages and towns all steeped in countryside history and resplendent architecture. The network of roads which connect these conurbations offer superb scenery and fast easy access for motorists. Slowing road users down as they approach the populated areas is the challenge faced by Northumberland County Council.

Numerous concepts have over the years been tried, from coloured gateway markings, rubber speed cushions and interactive signs to reduce vehicle entry speeds, all with varying results and detriment to the visual appeal to these countryside locations.

Northumberland County Council turned to Quicksetts and found the solution.

Low Profile Rumble Strips

Quicksetts Low Profile Rumble Strips are ideal for use in populated areas where traffic flow is to be maintained. The lower profile reduces the vehicle impact and generated tyre and suspension noise when compared with standard rumble strips.

Results

The low profile Quicksetts have a psychological traffic calming effect when laid in strips across the road by breaking up the linearity of the road surfacing and emphasising the gateway boundary. Research indicates that the greatest effect on speed reduction is a combination of visual and physical features, as such the low profile Quicksetts offer both vibration and audible outcomes although the effects are greatly reduced when compared to standard Rumble Strips. These benefits combined with the aesthetically pleasing natural granite stone sett effect have lead Northumberland County Council to continue rolling these rumble strips out across the county.

Northumberland County Counci’s Construction Manager stated “We are really pleased with the Quicksett rumble strips. The low profile nature of the setts has all the aesthetics of a rumble strip. The relatively smooth passage over the strip lessens noise experienced by local residents while still offering road users a tactile reminder to check their speed as they enter these populated areas.”