As a frequent user of the Hemel Hempstead "Magic" Roundabout (officially the Plough Roundabout) I think that the problems usually associated with mini-roundabouts are not part of the issues here.

For a start, there is no "straight-on" option at any of the mini-roundabouts at the Plough and usually traffic is heavy enough to warrant a slowish approach. Problems arise when people think they can defy the priority-from-the-right rule by tail-gating the driver in front. I recently nearly t-boned someone who did that. It all works well if people go one at a time and do not stop (because of stationary traffic at the exit they're aiming for) right on the mini-roundabout.

A lot of drivers are scared of the Magic Roundabout. Conceptually, it’s best to think of it as a circular, two-way road, with mini-roundabouts at each exit. It’s not like a conventional roundabout at all.

Historically, many traffic lights have been replaced with mini-roundabouts and I see no incentive for that to be reversed. What we are getting more of is sophisticated computer-controlled - sometimes part-time - traffic lights on conventional roundabouts, particularly where heavy rush-hour traffic is involved.

As for mini-roundabouts themselves, they are indeed widely abused. The Highway Code says, "All vehicles MUST pass round the central markings except large vehicles which are physically incapable of doing so." Yes - that means slowing down and using your steering wheel. Most drivers can't be bothered.

I live close to a complicated junction which has an entrance to a supermarket far to close to the slip road for a major bypass. Had it been designed now it probably wouldn't have been permitted.

It results in lots of confusion as you try and exit the supermarket to turn right onto the road. Cars approaching from the left, often at speed, indicate right and move over to take the slip, but are actually entering the supermarket, result was lots of minor accidents, road closures etc.

Years ago I contacted the local highways authority suggesting a redesign to incorporate mini roundabouts rather than T junctions. This would have the main effect of slowing down traffic and also give those exiting the supermarket an easier turn right.

I was told in no uncertain terms that this simply was not possible due to the layout and traffic volumes.

The accidents continued (it kept illuminated left bollard manufcturers in work) then a couple of years ago someone was crossing the road to go to the supoermarket and was knocked over and killed by a car which was exceeding the speed limit.

There was uproar, something must be done, road isn't pedestrian friendly for supermarket shoppers etc etc.

Last year two mini roundabouts and a zebra crossing appeared and since then no problem using the junctions. So done properly it can be a sensible idea, just a shame in this case someone had to die first.

Edited by daveyjp on 04/07/2016 at 16:26