Motor Union Modifies Through-traffic Policy

Press, Volume XCVIII, Issue 29010, 26 September 1959, Page 15

Motor Union Modifies Through-traffic Policy

Earlier advocacy and a remit yesterday that all State and main highways should be declared priority roads were amended by the South Island Motor Union conference in favour of extension of compulsory stop and give-way signs on major through routes. Dr. D. R. Jennings and Mr V. T. Russell (both Southland) moved a remit on the original lines, saying that such a move had often been urged but no decision had been reached. Mr P. W. Breen (Roads Board representative) said the board

hdd received representations but rejected them in favour of compulsory stops and give-way signs. Declaring a highway a priority road meant that its whole length must be sign-posted at every intersection, even in remote areas.

There was the additional problem, particularly in the South Island, of roads of “equal value,” he said. Who was to determine which would be the priority roads?

The signs at chosen points were much more effective, and these were being pushed ahead, said Mr Breen. Mr H. W. Dowling said the North Island Motor Union had previously favoured the boulevard system, but now agreed with Mr Breen that the warning signs, where needed, were sufficient to give through traffic the right of way.

Mr G. T. Anderson (Otago) suggested that the question be held over until the “two-tier” roads, proposed in the Roading Amendment Bill, had been operated. Mr E. J. Barron (Southland) said the signs achieved the desired end. Their extension should be speeded up. The North Island Motor Union’s resolution on the matter was adopted.