Preface
Tourism signing policy was last revised in 1995. This present revision has been jointly agreed between the Northern Ireland Tourist Board and Roads Service and includes the following changes from the policy that previously applied:
• Separate definitions are included for visitors, tourist attractions, tourist facilities and tourist utilities.
• Criteria for sign provision to tourist attractions are extended to include the need for parking on-site or close by, more clearly defined opening hour requirements and Membership of a NITB approved quality assurance scheme (where appropriate).
• The extended criteria will also apply to forest parks, historic monuments and National Trust properties.
• Visitor number thresholds have been increased two-fold where projected numbers are used.
• Development of tourist signing plans will be Council-led, with all enquiries being directed to the Council.
• Entrance signing for towns and villages has been revised.
• All golf courses may be signed.
• Tourist signing to churches will only apply to those designated as being of tourist interest.
• Tourist signing to urban accommodation will be allowed, but only as part of a tourist signing plan.
• Tourist information centres may be signed on all major approaches.
• The maximum number of destinations on a sign is limited to three on roads subject to a speed limit of 50mph or higher and to four on roads subject to a lower speed limit.
• In the absence of specific written agreements, Roads Service will erect all tourist signs.
• Construction by Councils of lay-bys in road verges for the erection of tourist information boards is no longer permitted.
The policy is presented in Roads Service Policy and Procedure Guide format. This layout has been retained to ensure consistency of understanding and application by all of the partners involved in delivering tourism signing plans in local authority areas.
As with previous tourist signing policy, the applicant shall bear all costs associated with signing provision.