Traffic Lights.

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXVI, Issue 20653, 29 June 1935, Page 10

Traffic Lights.

Dear Sir, —On what grounds does the member of the United Burgesses’ Association consider that light traffic signals are suitable for conditions pertaining in Christchurch? “Time-cycle” signals are rapidly being superseded in Britain, Europe. Canada, America and even in Australia by the “ vehicle-actuated ” signals. These signals provide a constant stream of traffic in one direction until cross traffic makes its demand for right-of-way. The interruption is then for only such time as is necessary for the cross traffic to clear the intersection in safety*. Two of these “vehicle-actuated’' systems were installed in Sydney about a year ago. and a recent cable announced that seventeen more were to be installed in the near future. Whilst they’ may* be expensive to instal, a traffic officer’s salary* capitalised for two years would probablv cover the initial outlay. The only fault with the system is that it would not provide for a right-hand turn, thoroughfares in New Zealand being for the most part too narrow to permit the installation of the necessary unit. This objection could be possibly overcome by the manufacturers, for the modern tendency is to make traffic as flexible as possible, and turn prohibitions only* serve to congest other streets. Now that we have a special committee of the council to deal with traffic problems, it is to be hoped that they will give consideration to this and many other aspects of traffic control which are apparently’ beyond the capacity of those who have been responsible for the go-as-y*ou-please, out-of-date methods that have characterised our street traffic methods of recent years.—l am, etc* OBSERVANT.