The use of coloured surfacing or roadway art on or adjacent to crossings can highlight a crossing point, reinforce slow vehicle speeds and contribute to an attractive streetscape. However, the inappropriate use of colour or roadway art can be misleading or confusing for pedestrians and other road users.
Coloured surfacing beneath zebra crossings (eg red) can result in insufficient contrast beneath the crossing bars. The recommended approach that meets the needs of all road users and aligns with relevant legislation is to apply areas of red coloured surfacing on the vehicle approaches to zebra crossings as outlined in the zebra crossings section.
Roadway art is permitted under the Land Transport Rule: Traffic Control Devices (2004) provided that it:
Further information on when roadway art can be used, how it should be applied, and some permitted examples are provided in the Tactical Urbanism Handbook and also more information can be found in the Coloured surfacing principles best practice guidance note, below:
It is recommended to engage early with local disability groups regarding any plans for roadway art at a crossing to ensure it is fit for purpose and incorporates the principles of inclusive pedestrian environments: that is safe, obvious and with step-free choices.
