§ 19. Mr. Hordernasked the Minister of Transport whether she will now authorise a pedestrian crossing to be placed across North Street, Midhurst.
§ Mr. CarmichaelI regret that my right hon. Friend cannot agree to this. A count of pedestrians and vehicles taken in July showed that traffic in North Street at peak hours was still considerably below the volume required by the relaxed criteria introduced in January. The West Sussex County Council was informed of this decision on 18th August.
§ Mr. HordernIs not the hon. Gentleman aware of the deep concern which exists, and has existed for many years, in Midhurst on this issue? It will be more widespread now that the decision has been made known. Is not the Minister aware that the figures in July are disputed, in any case, and that it is suggested that they should be taken in earlier months when traffic is a good deal heavier? Would the Minister bear that in mind and take soundings at the appropriate time?
§ Mr. CarmichaelMy right hon. Friend is always willing to reconsider decisions. However, in this case a number of figures were collected, some by the county council and some by the divisional road engineer. Not only were the figures not anything like up to even the revised criteria, but there was no point at which it could be said that pedestrians would want to cross this road. There was no focal point of pedestrians crossing. It is a very difficult matter, but there will always be room for reconsideration.