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We were camping near Pickering in North Yorkshire last week, and on the way there from Lancashire got caught out by the Sutton Bank diversion off the A170. For those who don't know, Sutton Bank is a hill which is summounted by a very steep, hairpin bend on the main road (a 1-in-4 gradient) and caravans are prohibited from using that road at that point.

There is a signposted diversion, which goes down some pretty rough, narrow country lanes. The problem is that the route takes a left hand turn at the crossroads in the village of Coxwain. We carried straight on and lost about half an hour navigating highly unsuitable roads.

Later in the week we were driving through the area again (solo), and I detoured to check if I had just missed seeing the sign. No - not guilty - there is no sign!

We made the same mistake in 2007 on our way to scarborough from Haltwhistle,

I go the blaim for that as I was navigating! (Missed the part in the book that said caravans not allowed on sutton bank!!)

UPDATE:

I complained about the lack of signs on the caravan diversionary route to the Highways Department of North Yorkshire Council, and they have now replied to say they have surveyed the route and agree that there is a sign missing from the crossroads in Coxwain.

They are going to replace it - so that's something. I've asked that they consider using a better "icon" on the signs, which currently just carry a black square. It's easy to miss that, as it's a common sign for temporary diversions. I've suggested that they substitute a caravan symbol and the legend "Caravan Diversion Route", but I bet they cite cost as an issue.

No excuse for what, Suzzie? For there not being signs on the diversionary route?

As a further update, I've been told that they can't use a different symbol because it wouldn't be in accordance with the relevant legislation (!) and so the confusing square will continue to be used. Apparently there isn't a legal symbol available to indicate "caravan route"...

Quote: Originally posted by Viggo on 23/6/2009

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No excuse for what, Suzzie? For there not being signs on the diversionary route?

As a further update, I've been told that they can't use a different symbol because it wouldn't be in accordance with the relevant legislation (!) and so the confusing square will continue to be used. Apparently there isn't a legal symbol available to indicate "caravan route"...

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there are several signs warning you of the prohibited caravans before the diversion route but the diversion route is badly signposted we have family in Thirsk and the signs are noticeable.