A happy 40th to town’s Magic landmark (From Swindon Advertiser)

A happy 40th to town’s Magic landmark

9:44am Thursday 27th September 2012 in News

THIS month marks the 40th birthday of the most iconic road junction in Swindon.

The Magic Roundabout is often referred to as Swindon’s best known landmark, putting fear into any visitor to the town or youngster learning to drive when they approach it.

The junction was designed by Norman Pritchard in 1972, when he was approached by the Road Research Laboratory and together they designed what has possibly become the world’s most talked about roundabout.

Since it’s arrival it has been voted as the seventh worst junction in Britain, listed in the 50 most confusing things in the country, and has been the focus of memorabilia including post cards and tea-towels.

Despite its reputation, the junction has proved to be a huge success with very few accidents, and even attracted the likes of Disney Land to be twinned with the town.

Mayor of Swindon Mick Bray said: “The key to it is always look to your right and you can’t go wrong. I have stood many times on the corner by the fire station and it works.

“It has become a landmark, people come from miles away and have all heard about the Magic Roundabout, they have even made tea-towels with it on.”

We are looking for your stories about the Magic Roundabout for a special feature to mark the anniversary. If you have any interesting stories contact the newsdesk on 01793 501806 or email newsdesk@swindonadvertiser.co.uk