Traffic Control on the N85

Recently, we travelled up from Provence to Bourg d’Oisans, via Gap, on the N85. The beyond La Mure vehicles over 7.5 tonnes and coaches are prohibited. Just past Laffrey, on the descent to Vizille, we came across a puzzling traffic control arrangement. The preceding sign seemed to indicate that there would be three routes: one for very high vehicles with a special card; one for vehicles with no pass card, and a third for vehicles under 2.6 metres.

We pressed on down the hill and came to the barriers. The very high gate was coned off; the second barrier was down, and a height barrier protected the third. We could see no way of getting through so we skirted around the height barrier and did a U turn. We headed up the hill to have another look at the sign. Other assorted vehicles were going disappearing down the hill and not returning, so we gave it another go!

This time we approached the second gate. There was nowhere to insert money or a card; however, there was a small sign which said (in French) “Wait here for two minutes and the barrier should open, if not …..”. Lo and behold the barrier opened and we set off down the hill. Within a few metres all three lanes merged back into One! At the bottom of the hill there is an old bridge but no height obstructions. There is no control of traffic heading up the hill!

 Does anyone know, or can anyone guess, what the purpose of this bit of traffic management is?