HC Deb 02 August 1939 vol 350 cc2361-2
36. Mr. Day

asked the Minister of Transport what decision has been reached for the purpose of relieving the heavy traffic at the Elephant and Castle, especially with regard to the proposed by-pass at Union Road, in the borough of South-wark?

Captain Wallace

The London County Council have informed me that they propose to prepare a scheme for relieving the traffic congestion at the Elephant and Castle, based on the assumption that it will not be necessary to provide for the perpetuation of the tramway system, but no decision has yet been reached. Whilst I am in favour of widening Union Road to enable traffic between Newington Causeway and New Kent Road to avoid the Elephant and Castle, the relief thus afforded would not, in my opinion, provide a solution of the difficulties at this junction.

Mr. Day

Am I to understand that the proposition to widen Union Road has now been abandoned?

Captain Wallace

I do not read the information which I have received from the London County Council in that way.

Mr. W. A. Robinson

May I ask respectfully what and where is the Elephant and Castle?

Captain Wallace

The Elephant and Castle is a public house to the south of this building.