You will be familiar with the sign shown on the right, it is placed on roads across the UK but have you seen the flag variant below? The answer might be no, this is because the sign is rarely used even though it should be used at most places you see the sign on the right.

'Advance direction map signs' such as the standard Diverted Traffic sign with a directional arrow (above) should be placed in advance of the junction, the distance from the turn depends on the type of road. A flag type or 'chevron' sign must be placed at the point of turn, usually on the opposite side of the carriageway.

 The only exception to this rule is on a 20mph single carriageway, on this type of road advance warning signs are not required and solely a flag type sign may be used when placed at the point of turn.

​

​When designing a TTM set up it must be 'like for like'. This means where signs or instructions are removed or altered the accompanying signs must be removed or masked where appropriate, and additional signage placed out. This is why we use advance and flag type signs, next time you are driving lookout for the advance sign for a turning and the destination, there should also be a flag type sign at the junction.

​

Drivers may not be used to taking different routes this is why it is paramount to ensure diversions are correctly signed.  Signs should be placed in advance of all junctions even where traffic proceeds straight ahead, this is because a diversion must use the same classification of the road as the one which is closed. Occasionally this means there are shorter routes that can be taken off the diversion, but, these may not be suitable for all types of vehicles using the diversion. It is not generally accepted to create separate diversions for differing classes of vehicle as this adds to driver confusion. 

A diversion board (TSRGD:_2702) is used to indicate the start of a diversion or to indicate there is one ahead, it is NOT acceptable to use these in lieu of diverted traffic signing.  The sign must be used in conjunction with TSRGD: 7010.1 (Road Ahead Closed / Road Closed)

Summary: Diversions must be signed using both advance and flag (chevron) signs.

Why This Matters: Clear signage ensures all drivers understand reroutes, reducing confusion, delays, and non-compliance.

Key Regulations:

• TSRGD: 2702 and 7010.1 used in combination

• Chapter 8: Advance signage and flag sign pairings

Common Issues:

• Missing flag signs at turning points

• Diversions not matching original route class or vehicle suitability

What You Should Do:

• Use paired signs (advance + flag)

• Sign every junction on a diversion route, including straight-ahead

Event TM Recommends:

• Diversion route planning and signage packages