The Department for Transport has launched the biggest review of British road signs for 40 years.

Transport minister Rosie Winterton has called on motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, highway authorities and road organisations to be given their say.

The review will ensure traffic signs keep pace with the latest technology, help cut congestion and emissions, and do not clutter the streets.

The review will consider new powers to reduce street clutter and demonstrate how effective signing can provide safer roads and reduce accidents.

Winterton said: ‘It is vital we help motorists, cyclists and pedestrians understand how to use our roads – improving road safety and helping reduce congestion and CO2 – without cluttering our streets with unnecessary signs.’

The steering group leading the review is expected to meet next month. It will deliver an action plan by the middle of next year, after which the DfT will work with specialist groups to develop policy proposals for consultation.

Welcoming the launch of the review, councillor Daniel Moylan, chairman of London Councils transport and environment committee, said: ‘It’s vital that the Government examines the basis on which road signs are legislated for. It is absurd that the same rules are applied to a high-speed A-road as to a quiet town centre.’