HC Deb 09 December 1969 vol 793 cc216-7
12. Sir R. Russell

asked the Minister of Transport if he will have signs erected on the M1 at Aldenham and at its junction with the M10 warning drivers that the width of each carriageway decreases from three lanes to two for seven miles, as this is not immediately obvious in the dark.

Mr. Bob Brown

Conspicuous direction signs, which are mounted on gantries and illuminated at night, already give warning of the reduced lanes available to through traffic on the approach to both junctions.

Sir R. Russell

Is the Minister aware that those signs are not as obvious as he perhaps thinks? Will he have some sign as obvious as that on the M4, where the east-bound traffic comes to a four-lane overhead section, posted at both ends of the M1?

Mr. Brown

The M1 signs were erected ten years ago. Many motorway signs have since been modified to comply with the Worboys recommendations. We intend to review all the signs on the M1, and there might possibly be a need for replacement. If there is any need for additional "Get in lane" signs, we will consider that in the review.

Mr. Gwilym Roberts

Is my hon. Friend aware that I travel up and down this road almost daily? I find that there is even greater danger at the other end of this two-lane section where, quite frequently, I find myself nearly involved in accidents with drivers who have got into the wrong position and have had to come back to the two lane stage at the end of the three-lane section?

Mr. Brown

I am grateful for the comments of a regular commuter on this stretch of road. I take note of the point made by my hon. Friend and shall look into this when we have the review.