ER signs '˜sending wrong message' to Skegness investors

New 'out ER' signs can be seen all over Lincolnshire.

Concerns about the impact of ER (evacuation route) signs were expressed by members of Skegness Business Forum during a debate with MP Matt Warman.

The Skegness and Boston MP was addressing members of the forum at a breakfast meeting at the Storehouse on Friday.

Mr Warman said: “Anyone coming looking to come to the area knows of the risk from flooding. These signs are here to reassure people.”

One forum member said a business that could have brought jobs to the area had pulled out over flooding fears, with others describing Lincolnshire County Council’s introduction of ER signs as “a joke”.

The county’s emergency planners and services introduced the signs across the county to lead motorists to safety in the event of a major flood. They stated the threat was proven by the devastating floods of 1953 and the events of 2013 highlighted that coastal flooding is still a risk.

Resident Tina Hill travels the A52 to Chattertons Solicitors in Boston and said: “The signs suddenly appeared as if without warning. It’s sending out the wrong message.”

Mr Warman said flooding ranked second to terrorism in government priorities. He said: “I could leave here today and rip them all out, but flooding is a serious threat. The signs show there is a way out.”