Note and Copy
Page 3
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IT is one thing for local authorities and police, as the bodies responsible for traffic control, to institute overall schemes designed to improve flow. It is, however; quite another thing for those same worthies to take into account the special needs of goods vehicles and buses. These vehicles, unlike most private cars, want to use particular places on particular streets for the very good purpose of conducting their business. They are not at the spot from desire, but because a customer requests that they should be there and is willing to pay for that service.
Slowly—all too slowly—this principle is being cautiously recognized here and there, even if it is not often acted upon. Still, the usual case is that operators' representations are politely noted. That is all. One-way systems, for instance, force goods vehicles and buses alike to run a lot of unproductive extra mileage. Bus operators, in particular, have a considerable grievance about these one-way schemes, which force passengers to go down streets they do not want to traverse and to walk farther for buses than is reasonable.
One answer, where it is practicable, is to allow buses—in a reserved lane—to run against a one-way traffic flow. Some of the results of the one experiment Britain is conducting fin London) are analysed on page 56.
Whatever the faults shown up—and there are some glaring ones —at least it is a sign of recognition of commercial vehicles' special case. Let all traffic authorities note and copy London's example.