MP STEVE Barclay tonight described the �30,000 estimated cost of two road signs for the A47 in the Fens as “unbelievable”.

The MP for NE Cambs said quote for the signs- to warn motorists of the hidden entrance to Thorney Toll village hall – had come from the Highways Agency.

“Such a ridiculous figure for the installation of two simple signs is unbelievable”, he said.

“As a member of the Public Accounts Committee I often see the results of wasteful spending, but this strikes me as one of the most extreme.

“If this is what they routinely spend on two small signs, then the rest of their spending needs investigation. I will be writing to the National Audit Office asking them to investigate this issue on a national scale.”

Mr Barclay has been calling for greater safety measures on the A47, following meetings with residents. He said his campaigning had got a safety camera re-activated, and he had written to the Highways Agency asking them to install signs to the village hall “which accessed directly from the main road is a potential hazard.”

He said the �30,000 figure was given to him by the divisional director of the Highways Agency but it would include “the cost of the poles/sign face, traffic management and design, installation works and supervision”.

Mr Barclay said that even if there was strong support for such signage anyway the agency expected the local group requesting it to foot the bill for it.

“This is in stark contrast to where they appear to be going ahead with works even when there is no local support,” he said.

“A local example included the proposed reduction in speed limit from 60mph to 50mph between Whittlesey and Ponders Bridge, which Whittlesey South councillor, Ralph Butcher described as ‘unnecessary’.”

The MP said: ‘Not only has the Highways Agency quoted sky high figures for work, but they are also not listening to the needs of local residents and this needs to change’.