Overhead Roads in Cities The traffic problem, and especially as
regards the congested approaches to London, is one of those matters which will not brook delay ; and for that reason Mr. Oliver Sinunonds and other Members of Parliament arc justified in seeking an unusual opportunity to present to the House their well-considered plan for relieving congestion. In their amendment to the Address they urge the construction of overways, or elevated thorough- fares_ for motor vehicles, through the suburbs of great cities. It is in the suburban exits from London that the congestion is greatest and the casualties most numerous. The proposal, it appears, does not include the construction of roads over streets, like the over- head railroads in New York, which are objectionable from every point of view. The plan is to carry over- ways connecting with the arterial roads outside the built-up area on steel columns above the railways con- ducting traffic to the central regions. Situated over the railways they would cause the least possible disturbance or nuisance. The scheme would involve no demolition and little depreciation of property, and would affect no amenities that have not already been affected. In view of the undiminished death-roll from motor accidents so promising a plan for improving the road approaches to crowded areas ought to be examined without any delay. The debate on. it should elicit some statement from the Minister of Transport.
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