The Specialist Structures Group of White Young Green (WYG, Headingley, Leeds, U.K., formerly CETEC Projects Ltd.) and the U.K. Highways Agency are developing a composite solution for motorway overhead sign structures. Ranging from 15m to 50m (49.2 ft to 164 ft) in length, the structures will span the entire roadway width in both traffic directions without a central support. Developed as an alternative to steel or concrete structures, many of which are reaching their design life limits, the composite structures offer lighter weight, easier transport and erection, greater durability and lower lifecycle costs.

WYG's project manager, Dr. Mark Leaity, notes that horizontal beams are infused, using vinyl ester resin, uni and biaxial glass reinforcements and balsa core. Supports are resin transfer molded. "There are no impending installations but there is a lot of interest in the U.K.," says Leaity. "The main barrier is cost." The company is exploring automated methods to make the product more cost-competitive.