TRAFFIC PROBLEMS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXII, Issue 22262, 9 November 1935, Page 15

TRAFFIC PROBLEMS

GREAT SOUTH ROAD SUGGESTIONS FOR RELIEF REGULATION OF CYCLISTS Concern at the traffic congestion on the Great South Road between the tram terminus and Otahuhu was expressed in a resident's letter received on Thursday night by the Otahuhu Borough Council. The letter stated that there were hundreds of cyclists and pedestrians daily proceeding to and from the many industrial works near Otahuhu. Many accidents had resulted and a number of lives had been lost through the traffic congestion. "So much traffic assuredly warrants the full 66ft. of road being available for use," continued the letter. It was remarkable that between the tram terminus and Otahuhu there were strips of roadside from 6ft. to 30ft. lying unused in grass. At many points where the ground was level this unused portion had been allowed to remain so strewn with loose rocks that a motorcar could not give way in the event of a traffic jam.

The writer asked the council to consider what action could be taken to improve conditions. It was pointed out by members that the Otahuhu Council was not concerned in tho stretch of roadway mentioned and that there had been efforts made by a conference of local bodies to effect improvements. The points raised are to be submitted to the Auckland District Highways Council.

The Automobile Association (Auckland) wrote emphasising the need for better regulation of cyclists in regard to lighting and the practice of riding several abreast on the main highway. It also stated a resolution had been adopted urging local bodies between Auckland and Papatoetoe to enforce any by-laws in operation. Reference was also made to the inadequate lighting of certain sections of the road. A. Sinclair said the recentlyconstructed cycle track at Westfield had not proved of much benefit to cyclists, for motorists were using the whole road.

It was decided to refer the matter to the Auckland Suburban Local Bodies' Association.