Mrs. Butlerasked the Minister of Transport whether he will now make a statement about the results of the pedestrian control experiments in Green Lanes, Harringay, and in two other London boroughs.
§ Mr. Tom FraserResults in the three controlled streets were not uniform though there was an improvement in road safety in all three, especially during the first six months. Taking all three together, accidents during twelve months working of the experiment were some 23 per cent. fewer than in the preceding 12 months. In the second six months the152W drop compared with the corresponding "before" period was only 6 per cent. Journey speeds through the controlled streets fell by an average of 23 per cent., although since some drivers avoided these streets the volume of traffic dropped by about 18 per cent. It has not been possible to track all routes taken by diverted traffic. But in nearby streets which may have been receiving increased traffic there was no definite evidence of any increase in the number of accidents. The rule about crossing the road only at the proper places has been very well observed, though there has been a progressive increase in pedestrians crossing against the signals.
The results so far do not point to any firm conclusions about the value of the experiment. Nevertheless, public reaction has been generally favourable. In particular, the principle of a secure crossing for pedestrians, especially the elderly or infirm, even with some loss of convenience for vehicles, appears to have been welcomed. Although there is certainly insufficient evidence to justify conclusions about wider use, I consider that continuation of the experiment beyond 29th March, the expiry date of the present order, is justified. I have laid regulations before Parliament for that purpose. In addition, my Department, together with the three local authorities and the Greater London Council (which will be the traffic authority from 1st April), are considering possible modifications to the experiment. These are aimed primarily at reducing traffic delays, while continuing to maintain a balance between the needs of drivers and of pedestrians. If acceptable modifications are worked out, it would be for the Greater London Council in due course to introduce the revised arrangements for a further experimental period.