WPC Corner: Confusion Junction

When we moved here three years ago, our first priority was to re-register my husband at the regional hospital for the specialised medical care that he needs. When we contacted the hospital for driving directions, we were told to drive along the old coastal road and turn right at the corner of Confusion Junction, then left into the hospital’s parking area. Confusion Junction? We looked at each other … well, in confusion. Surely we could not have heard right? But yes, that was indeed what the residents have named this crossing and we soon found out why.

We arrived at the hospital at 07:00 am on a Friday morning to find ourselves in chaotic traffic conditions. Road surfaces have recently been dug up and relaid, and there were no visible lines or road signs to indicate driving directions, lanes or pedestrian crossings. All vehicles were trying to squeeze into the narrow road leading past the hospital’s main entrance and the gates of the secondary school situated right next to the hospital. Cars, buses, minibus taxis and ambulances were driving full speed and jostling for parking space. Pedestrians were jay-walking, while street vendors were calmly setting up their stalls on the sidewalks. Blaring horns, wailing sirens and booming radios added to the cacophony.

Confusion Junction seemed an apt name for this busy crossing.

I took this photo on Sunday morning and without the cars, the pedestrians and the street vendors, and with all street lines and signs in place, confusion no longer reigns, but somehow I think the name will stick!

WPC Corner