The Transport Department will rationalise the road network route numbering system which has been in force since 1974 and introduce a logical exit numbering system for motorists.

The "Comprehensive Review of Directional Signing in Hong Kong" that the department commissioned in August 2001 was completed at the end of 2002. It recommended the proposed changes.

Sign of the times: The network route numbering system which has been in force since 1974 will be improved and more than 1,400 signs will be modified. The current format is presented on the left, the recommended one on the right.

The department's Senior Engineer So King-kwong said the study shows that Hong Kong's standards are, in general, in line with those in other developed countries.

However, there are areas that could use some improvement. The review suggests including more directional guidance to access the strategic road network, eliminating inconsistent destination names and providing adequate advance signing, he added.

To implement the recommendations, more than 1,400 signs will have to be modified by patching the route numbers and exit numbers on these signs.

The sign modification is expected to be completed by early 2004.

Directional signs using the revised design standards will be put on trial in Sha Tin District and a section of Tolo Highway from Sha Tin to Tai Po.

To help motorists to remember the road network routes, the Government will promote the concept of using a schematic road network diagram and develop line diagrams for each route.

It will also liaise with map publishers and other relevant organisations to incorporate the road network routes and exit numbers into driving maps and guidebooks available in Hong Kong.

Mr So said the new design will be refined subject to public response. The guidelines on directional signing will then be revised and incorporated into the Transport Planning & Design Manual to serve as a basis for the design of directional signs for the whole territory.