New high-visibility signage is being tested along the hill known as It-Telgħa t’Alla u Ommu but although the stretch merits the signs, as there are various concealed exits and minor roads, the contractor assigned the job by Transport Malta mistakenly installed more signs than necessary.

The surplus signs would be removed at the expense of the contractor, a Transport Malta spokes-man said.

The Times last week reported on the confusing signage situation along the road linking Salini to Naxxar.

In the stretch of a few metres, motorists come across a caution sign, followed by another indicating there is a side road to the left within 100 metres, another caution sign and then another side road within 100 metres sign.

As drivers approach the top of the hill they see a sign saying the road will narrow within 60 metres. And, as they take the bend, the distance remains unchanged as an identical sign insists on the 60-metre distance.

Apart from the mistakes, there is a high concentration of signs that include caution signs, concealed exits and speed limit.

The spokesman explained that the road was chosen for a simulation project involving the installation of high-visibility signs, which practically light up the road at night. The road was selected for the project because it is unlit at night and the site of “an above-average incidence of accidents”.

The situation would be assessed and if proven successful after rigorous testing, Transport Malta would consider applying such signage in other roads having similar circumstances, the spokesman said.

“However, there are also surplus signs that are in the process of being removed... Basically, it’s the contractor’s mistake, which he will be rectifying... One also has to understand that, due to the particular characteristics of that road, with multiple exits to minor roads and accesses to private facilities, it necessitates additional signage,” the spokesman said.