An MP has questioned the location of new road safety signs on the A47 near Wisbech after residents raised concerns they were too close to a junction to have any impact.

South West Norfolk MP Elizabeth Truss joined members of Walsoken Parish Council and borough councillor Brian Long at the Broadend Road junction on the A47 to view the new signs.

The Highways Agency has installed vehicle-activated signs on both the eastbound and westbound A47 approaches to the staggered junction.

The signs warn approaching drivers of the junction ahead and display the “Reduce Speed Now” legend. They are triggered at a set vehicle speed and display the message when there is a vehicle turning out of either side road.

In addition, road markings will be improved and double white lines will be installed at the “ghost islands” to prohibit overtaking. Ms Truss said: “Local residents want to see safety measures put in place at this junction and I fully support them in securing this. After substantial lobbying the new signs have now been installed.

“Solid white lines are also scheduled to be marked on the road.However, residents have raised concerns that the signs are too close to the junction to have any impact.

“I have written to the Highways Agency seeking clarification of why they are positioned in this location, and I will be asking for regular updates on how effective the signs are in reducing speed, improving driver awareness and preventing dangerous overtaking at the junction.”

Mr Long said the new safety measures would help but more needed to be done to make this stretch of road safer, especially in preventing overtaking.

A spokesman for the Highways Agency said: “Safety is a top priority for us and we will continue to monitor the operation of the signs through a series of road safety audits which will measure the effectiveness of the scheme.

“We will work with our contractors to assess the locations of the new road safety signs following the concerns raised and implement improvements if necessary.”