TRAFFIC OUTSIDE BUILT-UP AREAS
[To the Editor of THE SPECTATOR.]
SIR,—NOW that the Ministry of Transport is being empowered to take over trunk roads can we not at last adopt a bold policy and really tackle the problem of motor traffic outside " built-up areas "? It is a different problem inside those areas, and largely a matter of organisation and supervision. The other day the secretary of the C.T.C. said in a speech that " hitherto the local authorities had been content merely to tinker with the existing road system, although it never could be adapted to satisfy all the present needs of the nation, still less its future requirements. Sooner or later we must begin to lay down special motor roads." This is sound common sense. The present method of trying to adapt existing roads for fast- moving traffic satisfies no one. The motorist cannot develop the speed for which his car is built, and chafes at the restrictions imposed, not only by authority but by reason of the fact that he has to share the same road with slow-moving traffic, cyclists, pedestrians, perambulators, children and cattle. On the other hand all these classes of road users have a genuine griev- ance when mixed up on the same road with fast-moving traffic. Those who live in the country have their peace disturbed and their safety endangered, and the amenities of the country and its ancient buildings are being ruthlessly sacrificed. When steam trains came into use special tracks had to be laid down for them. Special roads should be constructed for fast-moving motor traffic, and our country roads left unspoiled for slow- moving traffic and other road users. Motors using these roads should be severely restricted as to speed. As it is we are spend- ing vast sums of money on " tinkering with existing roads " without really solving the problem, and meanwhile not only is money being wasted but precious lives.—I am, Sir, yours
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