Banned turns
When using the Transport for London Road Network (TLRN) you will see signs with a red outer circle which show you the direction you must not take
A banned manoeuvre occurs when drivers ignore signs giving instructions as to a direction they must or must not take.
The signs are located before the banned manoeuvre and often additional signage will provide an advanced warning.
Enforcement of banned manoeuvres helps to manage how traffic uses the road and makes it safer for pedestrians.
Recognising a banned manoeuvre sign
These signs are listed in the Highway Code and are not unique to the red route. They are either signs with:
- A white arrow on a blue background showing you the direction you must take, or
- A red outer circle showing you the direction you must not take
When using the Transport for London Road Network (TLRN), known as 'red routes', you will see signs with a white arrow on a blue background, which have the following meaning:
Straight ahead only
You must continue ahead only.
You must not turn left, right or make a U turn.
Left turn ahead
You must turn left at the junction ahead.
You must not turn right, go straight ahead or make a U turn.
Right turn ahead
You must turn right at the junction ahead.
You must not turn left, go straight ahead or make a U turn.
Turn left
You must turn left.
You must not turn right, go straight ahead or make a U turn.
Right turn
You must turn right.
You must not turn left, go straight ahead or make a U turn.
When using the red route you will see signs with a red outer circle, they have the following meaning:
Can do
Go ahead or make a left hand turn.
Can't do
Turn right.
Can do
Turn right or straight ahead.
Can't do
Turn left.
Can do
Drive ahead or make a left or right turn.
Can't do
Make a U-turn.
Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs)
We issue PCNs to deter drivers from breaking the rules and endangering other road users.
