10 hours ago
Magic Roundabout ranked as one of UK's most stressful junctions
The Magic Roundabout in Swindon has been ranked as one of the UK's most 'stressful' junctions.
A new survey of 1,000 drivers found that the iconic landmark placed second, just below the Hanger Lane Gyratory in London.
For more than 50 years, the unusual layout - which arranges five mini-roundabouts in circle around a central island - has fascinated and confused people who are unfamiliar with Swindon's roads network, particularly as it is possible to navigate that central island in an anti-clockwise direction.
The survey, by the Scrap Car Comparison website, is based on how drivers felt when shown one street view perspective and one satellite image of various junctions and roundabouts.
These motorists were then asked to rate from on a scale of one to 10 how much confusion, fear, anxiety and confidence they felt at the thought of driving through it.
The Magic Roundabout scored 42, which placed it above Norwich's Cromer Road & Boundary Road Junction, The Crooked Billet Interchange in Waltham Forest, and Ynysforgan Roundabout in Swansea.
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Customer service manager Matt Clamp said: 'Driving through unfamiliar junctions can rattle even the most experienced motorists.
'Our advice? Start by planning ahead, tools such as Street View or route planners can help you visualise the road before you set off.
'Try to get into the correct lane early by watching for signs and markings.
'Don't let other road users rush you - it's perfectly okay to go at your own pace.
'Always signal clearly and confidently to show your intentions, especially if you need to change lanes.
'Consider driving at quieter times of day when the roads are less busy. A little preparation can go a long way in turning a potentially stressful drive into a safe and confident journey.'
The Magic Roundabout may seem bewildering at first glance but it is easier to navigate than it looks.
It recently won the honour of Roundabout of the Year, with the awards body describing it as a 'terrific traffic-island system'.
Cllr Chris Watts, Swindon Borough Council's Cabinet member for transport, said: 'The Magic Roundabout is a proud part of Swindon's history and we wouldn't have it any other way.
'We know it can be intimidating for some, but if drivers take it slow and steady then it can be easily navigated.
'While accidents might happen, this isn't inherently to do with the roundabout itself and it is very safe.
'If drivers are still nervous, there's always the tried and tested method of just driving round the outside.'
