TRAFFIC CONTROL MEASURES

Press, Volume XCIV, Issue 28157, 21 December 1956, Page 18

TRAFFIC CONTROL MEASURES

Congestion Before Holidays SPECIAL ORDERS TO OFFICERS Special instructions have been issued to traffic officers of the Christchurch City Council for dealing with the heavy traffic and large crowds expected in Christchurch during the Christmas and New Year period. To® keep traffic moving when it becomes too heavy at intersections, officers will direct private vehicles straight through, allowing no righthand turns. Buses, taxis, trade and commercial vehicles will be given priority. According to a statement from the traffic department, experience has shown that last-minute shoppers and those who like to make a sight-seeing tour of me inner city add to the congestion.

“Motorists should not expect to find parking in Colombo or High streets on December 24,” says the statement. “They are urged to leave their vehicles away from the centre of the city, and do their shopping on foot.

“The department does not wish to be a source of annoyance to anyone, but in the interests of safety, enforcement will be rigidly carried out,” says the statement.

The biggest problem will occur in Colombo street, between Tuam and Armagh streets. High street from the Majestic lights to the Bank of New Zealand corner, and Cathedral square. Should the density of pedestrian traffic be such that it intrudes on to the roadway in the central areas, private vehicles will be diverted away from these streets, and only buses, taxis, and commercial vehicles allowed through. “We are also concerned about double-parking, and officers have been instructed to issue offence notices. Double parking is particularly dangerous because persons such as women preoccupied with children often step out into traffic. Also, it must not be forgotten that fires have a habit of breaking out without warning. If the streets are congested by double-parked vehicles* that also can make the difference between life and death.

“Parking too close to pedestrian crossings is another dangerous practice, preventing pedestrians from seeing or being seen by oncoming traffic.

“On New Year’s Eve the department strongly advises all motorists to keep clear of Cathedral square,” the statement says.

“We are aware that trouble does rot always lie at the wheel of the motorist. Cyclists and pedestrians can also help to maintain a smooth flow of traffic, which is vitally important where congestion is likely to take place. “Keep to the left, give good clear signals, and obey all directions given by traffic officers, especially when they are on point duty. A pointsman’s signals are not only for motorists and cyclists, they are directions for pedestrians. too. Without public co-opera-tion, he will not be able to carry out his job efficiently. Finally, keep clear of all prohibited areas—bus stops, vehicular entrances, fireplugs, and areas close to intersections and outside picture theatres,” concludes the statement.