HC Deb 14 April 1976 vol 909 cc556-7W
Mr. Jopling

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the purpose of the raised ramps, now being constructed alongside motorways; what consultations have taken place with motorists' and safety organisations over the possible dangers of placing such ramps beside the carriageways; and what forecast he has made of the number of accidents likely to be caused each year, both by collisions with the ramps and by vehicles entering or leaving them.

Dr. Gilbert

The raised ramps alongside motorway hard shoulders are observation platforms for the sole use of police patrol vehicles. They were devised at the request of the police and after a trial on M3 it was decided at the end of 1974 to go ahead with their provision. The platforms are spaced between five and 10 miles apart, they are situated behind the hard shoulder, above carriageway level and are clearly visible. It is not considered that they, or their use, will constitute a danger to road users.

No consultations with motorists' or safety organisations were felt to be necessary.