§ Ms. RuddockTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what quantifiable criteria have been used to measure the operation of the red route pilot project; and on what days and at what times monitoring has taken place.
§ Mr. Chope[holding answer 30 January 1991]: The "before" surveys were carried out at a variety of times and on a variety of days during 1990. A full programme of monitoring including "after" surveys is being carried out.
The quantifiable objectives for the pilot scheme are:
During the working day reduce average journey times—currently 26.5 minutes—and the variation in journey times—presently 15 minutes—thus improving journey reliability along the route.Reduce traffic in adjacent rat-runs.Improve the reliability of bus services operated so that more run to timetable.Reduce casualties along the route and on adjacent roads and thus contribute to meeting the targets for the Boroughs concerned.Improve conditions for pedestrians and cyclists and reduce conflicts between them and vehicles.The aim is to achieve the objectives without encouraging an increase in the number of cars being used for commuting into central London and any adverse impact on shops along the route.
§ Ms. RuddockTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what provision he has made in the red route pilot project for money to be collected and deposited with banks by security vans.
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§ Mr. Chope[holding answer 30 January 1991]: Although there is no general exemption for security vehicles, arrangements can be made between the police and the operators individually according to the nature and location of deliveries.
§ Ms. RuddockTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what information he has on the effects of the red route pilot project on traders' businesses along the line of the route; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Chope[holding answer 30 January 1991]: Since the pilot route opened representations have been received from several businesses. In some cases it has been possible to provide some loading or waiting areas, but in other cases the location of the businesses is such that loading or waiting is not possible without creating congestion or affecting safety. It is too soon to reach conclusions about long-term effects.
§ Ms. RuddockTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport how many(a) organisations and businesses and (b) members of the public responded to the consultation on the red route pilot project.
§ Mr. Chope[holding answer 30 January 1991]: A total of 221 responses were made by businesses and 240 by members of the public or organisations. As a result of the consultation, several important changes to the scheme were made, mainly to suit the needs of local businesses.