HC Deb 08 March 1927 vol 203 cc1035-6
42. Lieut.-Colonel HOWARD-BURY

asked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware of the danger of the new upright curb-stones along the sides of the new arterial and main roads; and whether he will consider whether it would be more advantageous and less dangerous if the edges were rounded off and sloped down to the road at a more gentle angle?

Colonel ASHLEY

I do not consider that vertical curbs are dangerous, but in certain circumstances splayed or rounded edges, as used in many districts, are preferable, and I gave instructions some time ago to the engineering staff of my Department that local authorities should be encouraged to extend the practice where suitable.

Sir JOSEPH NALL

Does not this practice add to the cost, as well as to the obstruction?

Colonel ASHLEY

I do not think that that is so. It would be more expensive to have a curved than an upright curb.

Lieut.-Colonel HOWARD-BURY

Is it not much safer?

Mr. RADFORD

Is it not the case that upright curbs are more likely to afford protection to pedestrians on the footpath?

Colonel ASHLEY

That is exactly the point. In urban areas, where pedestrians are in evidence, the upright curbs are preferable, but in the country, where there are none, I think the curved ones are preferable.

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