MPs considering traffic light switch-off

A transport minister is urging the government to consider a radical plan to ease congestion, switching off traffic lights outside of peak periods.

John Hayes, a Department of Transport minister with a remit for national roads, is said to be investigating proposals made by Conservative MP Sir Greg Knight, a former shadow transport minister, who believes that motorists are being held in traffic jams unnecessarily

Sir Greg cites that similar schemes are already in operation in other countries, challenging Mr Hayes, Sir Greg asked; “Are you aware that thousands of motorists travelling at non-rush hour times often find themselves stuck in a traffic jam at traffic lights for no reason whatsoever? Why can't some of these traffic lights be turned off as indeed they do in other countries?

RAC spokesman Simon Williams said part-time traffic signals have proved successful in tackling congestion in some parts of the UK, adding: "Motorists would certainly welcome any measures to reduce needless traffic jams further.

"The cost of congestion to the economy runs into the billions so it is a positive move for the minister to consider a different way of tackling congestion."

AA President, Edmund King, also welcomed the move, provided sensible precautions are made: "Switching off lights outside peak periods can help to reduce congestion, fuel consumption and indeed road rage.” He said, adding; "The junctions must be well signed and they generally should not be switched off in busy pedestrian areas."

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