HC Deb 14 May 1957 vol 570 cc203-4
27. Mr. Partridge

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works, as representing the Lord President of the Council, what work the Road Research Laboratory of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research has done on the flow of traffic at roundabouts; and whether any conclusion has been reached on their maximum capacity.

Mr. H. Nicholls

The Road Research Laboratory has been studying traffic flow and behaviour at roundabouts under experimental and actual conditions. This is leading to a better understanding of the factors involved and particularly of the relation between maximum traffic flow and the shape and dimensions of a roundabout, but it is not yet possible to forecast accurately the capacity of any particular design under actual conditions.

Mr. Partridge

Has the Road Research Laboratory advised on the proposed roundabout at Hyde Park Corner?

Mr. Nicholls

Yes, Sir. I believe that the research results contributed very materially to the decision of the Minister of Transport.

Mr. P. Noel-Baker

Will the Parliamentary Secretary continue to put the prevention of accidents as a major consideration in the design of roundabouts?

Mr. Nicholls

Yes, I think I can reiterate what is the Government's intention all along the line: prevention is better than cure in these matters.