Magic Roundabout, Traffic roundabout system in Swindon, England
The Magic Roundabout is a traffic junction in Swindon, England, that consists of a central roundabout surrounded by six smaller circular intersections. Each satellite circle operates independently and connects to the middle area, allowing vehicles to choose multiple paths through the junction.
The layout was opened in 1972 after local authorities sought a way to handle growing traffic at the point where five roads meet. The design drew on a concept already tested elsewhere in England but was implemented here on a larger scale.
The system appears confusing at first, but drivers move through the layout by following simple priority rules as they shift between the individual roundabouts. Local drivers have grown accustomed to this solution and use it daily as a normal part of their routes through the city.
Visitors can observe the junction from the surrounding roads or stop briefly to view the layout while driving through between the circles. Those who wish to drive the junction themselves should watch for signage carefully and yield to other vehicles at each entrance.
The central area permits vehicles to move counterclockwise while the surrounding circles follow clockwise movement, which is unusual in Britain. This reversal of direction keeps drivers alert and requires them to respond more quickly as they pass through.
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