HC Deb 26 April 1927 vol 205 cc648-9
10. Mr. R. MORRISON

asked the Minister of Transport whether it is proposed to extend the round-about traffic system to other congested crossings in the London traffic area; and which points are at present under consideration?

The MINISTER of TRANSPORT (Colonel Ashley)

I have now before me a recommendation by the London Traffic Advisory Committee that the "roundabout" system should be adopted in those portions of Queen Victoria Street, Queen Street, Cannon Street, Cheapside, and Poultry, which form two triangles to the West of the Mansion House, and am in consultation with the City authorities in the matter. Other recommendations of the Committee included the adoption of "one-way" traffic working in the following streets:

  • Montpelier Vale, Blackheath,
  • Chapel Street, Marylebone,
  • Bow Road (part), Poplar,
  • Marylebone Lane,
  • Somerset Street, off Orchard Street,
and also some re-arrangement of the traffic working at the Albert Gate, Kensington.

Colonel DAY

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the particularly dangerous spot at the Elephant and Castle has been brought to the notice of the Advisory Committee?

Colonel ASHLEY

I do not think that it has been investigated up to the present moment.

Colonel DAY

Will the right hon. Gentleman bring it to the notice of the Committee? It is one of the most dangerous spots in South London.

Colonel ASHLEY

I will.

Commander BELLAIRS

Will my right hon. Friend consider the re-planning of the Grosvenor Gardens outside Victoria Station, in order to relieve the congestion of traffic, and establish a roundabout system?

Colonel ASHLEY

I know that that particular case is being considered, but it would hardly come into the question of the round-about system. The conditions of traffic there are being considered.

Mr. MORRISON

Does the list which the right hon. Gentleman has just given exhaust the places under consideration by the Committee?

Colonel ASHLEY

Those are the recommendations we are dealing with at present. When those are dealt with, we shall go on to others.

Mr. HARRIS

In these new experiments will consideration be given to the safety of pedestrians?

Colonel ASHLEY

Yes, that is a question which is engaging the anxious consideration of the Advisory Committee and myself, and suggestions for crossing places and other devices are being closely studied. It is a very important question.