ROAD RAGE

THE main road network in the north of the island looks set to turn the countryside into one large building site, thanks to “star projects” financed by the Balearic government and Council of Majorca. The building of the Inca to Sa Pobla motorway, the upgrading and extension of the main road to Alcudia, the construction of the south Inca bypass and a new roundabout in Pollensa have led to frustrating delays and tailbacks throughout the summer, especially in July and August. The panorama of excavation has led to increasing confusion for motorists, especially for tourists and Majorcan people who are visitors to that part of the island. A journey along main roads littered with yellow signposts has become commonplace for motorists wanting to get to Alcudia via Inca. As soon as the driver leaves Inca, he is beset by a labyrinth of signs that are startling in their initial impact. One of the first major difficulties is encountered at the first turnoff to Sa Pobla which could be described as a “black spot”. Drivers leaving Sa Pobla for Inca have to get into a lane which is too narrow and on a bend so that visibility is very poor.
CONFUSION
Furthermore, it is at this point throughout the summer where cars coming from Sa Pobla have been forced to queue as it is the only route allowing access to the main road from Inca to Alcudia. One kilometre further on, the turnoff for Pollensa has become a tortuous maze for those not familiar with the road network. The situation is especially difficult for those motorists coming from Pollensa to Alcudia who have to merge into the traffic from a provisional lane. The problems are magnified at night, especially on the section of highway from Sa Pobla to Alcudia where upgrading and extension work is being carried out. Alongside Sa Pobla's waste treatment plant, an array of flashing lights lead the driver from one side of the roadway to the other, merely increasing any already-existing confusion. On arrival in Pollensa where a new roundabout is being built, traffic is diverted towards the old Alcudia road and has become nothing less than directional chaos. The works on the bypass under construction south of Inca which will link the Palma motorway with that to Alcudia, also disrupt the motorist's journey. On arriving in Inca from Sineu or the other way round, drivers are forced to circumnavigate various road bends built on elevations over what is going to be the future bypass. The project is due for completion in October.