HC Deb 26 July 1927 vol 209 cc1012-3
31. Lord APSLEY

asked the Minister of Transport why a brightly coloured signpost has been erected between Halkyn House and Bathurst House, in Belgrave Square; and whether it is a unique specimen or one of a series that is to be repeated in other parts of London?

Colonel ASHLEY

The signpost in question, and other similar ones, have been erected experimentally to indicate to drivers a route between Hyde Park Corner and Vauxhall Bridge which avoids Victoria Station and its vicinity. This route, if used to any considerable extent, would materially lessen the serious traffic congestion at Victoria. If the experiment is found to be successful it is proposed to indicate a few other alternative routes, the use of which would relieve certain highly congested streets.

Lord APSLEY

Which particular authority is responsible for the erection of this atrocity? Apart from the fact that it is extremely ugly, is my right hon. Friend aware that it is very dangerous, because it looks exactly like a large Pratt's petrol pump, and a large number of cars are continually drawing up at it, only to be disappointed? Will my right hon. Friend go into the matter and try to persuade whichever authority is responsible at least to try to make it look like a signpost and have it painted a decent colour.

Mr. B. SMITH

Is it not possibly the fact that, the sign being useful to traffic, it might destroy the amenities of the Square?

Colonel ASHLEY

The answer is really that these are experimental signs. There is no particular virtue about the colour, and that can be considered. The House will agree, I am sure, that if we can by any means lessen the congestion on certain main arterial roads and afford some by-passes to relieve the congestion, it is a very excellent method to follow.

Lord APSLEY

Is my right hon. Friend aware that I have tried the signpost and that as a means of direction it has failed? If I want to go to Woolwich I go in exactly the opposite direction.

Mr. R. MORRISON

Is there any sinister motive in trying to persuade the inhabitants of Belgrave Square to go to Woolwich?

Colonel ASHLEY

I think an exchange of visits would be excellent.

Colonel DAY

Can the right hon. Gentleman say how many of these signs have been erected?

Colonel ASHLEY

I could not say off-hand, but there is not a great number, and they are purely experimental.