Removing traffic lights could cut delays and accidents

Date: 12/8/2010

Transport planners are taking out traffic lights in town centres in a bid to improve traffic flow and reduce the number of collisions.

In an initiative known as Shared Space, where pedestrians and cars are not separated by road signs and markings, traffic lights have already vanished from Somerset, Plymouth and Brighton, the Daily Telegraph reported.

The project is based on a similar scheme in Drachten, the Netherlands, where the number of serious accidents fell after almost all traffic lights were removed from the town.

Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians became more careful and aware of other vehicles because they were no longer segregated.

London major Boris Johnson has announced plans to remove traffic lights and white lines from the capital's streets after the measures reduced the number of accidents in Kensington High Street by 44 per cent over the last two years.

He now intends to extend the policy across London, according to publicservice.co.uk, in order to improve journeys and the appearance of public spaces.

Posted by Sarah Bailey