Traffic Calming in Seddon Road...what's it all about???

I have a question...I have raised it on Facebook in the hope George has a comment...
Seddon Road in Sutton/Morden. There are two places where the road has been narrowed, I assume for traffic calming. What are the red areas for??? I am always asked 'why are these flat?', and 'why can't we drive over them?'.

I assume that we should drive over the speed hump, giving priority according to the signs...otherwise why have the priority signs if two cars can fit through?

Shouldn't the red bits have solid white lines around them?

What does everyone else think???

If you have facebook, there has been a very lengthy discussion on there...I'm hoping for a comment from George.

You know my thoughts but rest assured George will be questioned on the subject ......