HC Deb 03 February 1960 vol 616 cc980-1
14. Sir W. Wakefield

asked the Minister of Transport if he will consider extending Lower Regent Street into St. James's Park with a view to relieving the serious traffic congestion by St. James's Palace.

Mr. Marples

This is a matter for the London County Council and the Westminster City Council to consider in the first place, but I cannot hold out any hope that Her Majesty's Government could look with favour at proposals which would involve substantial alterations to Waterloo Place, Carlton House Terrace and the Duke of York's Steps.

Sir W. Wakefield

Is the fact that substantial alterations may be needed any reason why a scheme which will obviously be of very great advantage, in avoiding congestion in Central London, should not be thoroughly examined?

Mr. Marples

My hon. Friend will find that in regard to this problem many people have ideas which are different from his. I do not think that there is any point in tearing the heart and soul out of a city by putting up slabs of concrete in the parks, which have been amenities for many years.