The Highways Agency has painted over the letter "A&E" after bungled signs installed at M1 junction 8.

In response to what can only be described as an incredible piece of non-joined-up Government, the Highways Agency have now painted over signs to “Hemel Hempstead, Hospital A&E” which were installed only days after the Government closed the A&E in the town.

Incensed by this incompetence, local MP Mike Penning said:

“I was very concerned that someone in dire need of medical help may be directed off the M1 to Hemel hospital expecting to find a fully functioning hospital with A&E – after all apart from the signs someone unfamiliar with the area would probably expect it of a town the size of Hemel.

“Apart from that, it is a real insult to Hemel residents – to close the A&E and then within a week to install signs to ‘Hemel Hempstead with Hospital and A&E’ at the M1! There is clearly a complete lack of any joined up Government. You couldn’t make it up!”

Mike contacted the Highways Agency immediately and the Agency has now painted over the letters “A&E” as a temporary solution.

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