Confusion over A259 roadworks as signs show wrong reopening time

Drivers using the A259 Bexhill Road in St Leonards are facing confusion over overnight road closures, after inconsistencies were spotted between official information and on-site signage.

Roadworks currently taking place between property number 199 and the Esso garage are listed as running overnight from 7pm to 7am. However, signs displayed on the road state that the closure ends at 6am.

This raises concerns that motorists may plan journeys based on incorrect information, potentially expecting the road to reopen at 6am when access may still be restricted for another hour.

The issue was raised with East Sussex Highways, who confirmed that the permitted working hours are until 7am.

In a response, they said:
“We can confirm that the works may run until 7am, as stated on the permit. Although the on-site signage currently shows 7pm to 6am, the permitted working hours are 7pm to 7am.”

Despite this, as of 2pm on April 14, the roadside signage still displays 6am as the reopening time.

Inconsistencies like this can lead to wider uncertainty for drivers, with some motorists already questioning whether road signs are accurate or up to date. In some cases, this can result in drivers taking the risk and proceeding anyway, particularly if they believe signage may be outdated.

With ongoing works expected to continue until mid-May, drivers are advised to allow extra time for journeys and be aware that access may remain restricted until 7am, despite what is shown on local signage.