Located in the town of Swindon, UK, the Magic Roundabout is not only a unique traffic feature but also the world’s largest roundabout. Consisting of five mini roundabouts arranged in a circle, the Magic Roundabout handles a daily average of around 50,000 vehicles.
The History of the Magic Roundabout
The Magic Roundabout was first constructed in 1972 as a solution to traffic congestion in the town center of Swindon. It was designed by the engineer Frank Blackmore and was intended to reduce traffic jams and improve traffic flow. The roundabout was an instant success and quickly became a popular tourist attraction.
The Design of the Magic Roundabout
The Magic Roundabout is unique in that it consists of five mini roundabouts arranged in a circle, with a central island. Each of the five mini roundabouts handle traffic from a different direction, with the central island serving as a shared space for pedestrians and bicyclists. The roundabout also features a landscaped garden in the center which adds to its aesthetic appeal.
The Functionality of the Magic Roundabout
The Magic Roundabout is designed to handle a high volume of traffic, with the five mini roundabouts allowing for smooth and efficient traffic flow. The central island serves as a shared space for pedestrians and bicyclists, allowing for safer travel through the roundabout.
