HC Deb 17 July 2003 vol 409 cc623-4W
Mr. Greg Knight

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what recent assessment he has made of the impact of speed humps on the(a) environment,(b) suspension systems of motor vehicles and (c) response times of emergency vehicles; and if he will make a statement. [126514]

Mr. Jamieson

The Traffic Management and Air Quality (TRAMAQ) research programme is looking at the impact of traffic management techniques, including road humps, on vehicle emissions and air quality. Further information on this programme is available on the Department's website [http:www.dft.gov.ul/stellent/groups/dft_roads/documents/page/dft_roads_508003.hcsp#TopOfPage].

My Department has a current research project looking into the impact of road humps on vehicles and their occupants. As part of this project the suspension of vehicles will be examined after repeated runs over a range of road humps. The results of this project will be available towards the end of this year.

The Department has not specifically assessed the impact of road humps on response times for emergency vehicles. However, local authorities are required to consult the emergency services prior to installing road humps to ensure minimal delay to their vehicles.

Mr. Greg Knight

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what guidelines he has issued to local authorities in respect of the size, height and positioning of speed humps on roads; and whether he plans changes thereto. [126515]

Mr. Jamieson

"The highways (Road Humps) Regulations 1999" cover the dimensions and positioning of road humps. In addition, my Department has issued guidelines on the construction of road humps in the form of the Traffic Advisory Leaflet series; a full list of these is available in TAL 5/01 "Traffic Calming Bibliography" There are no current plans to alter either the regulations or guidance.