‘Axe traffic lights’ plan stuck at red
Published: 1 October, 2010
by TERRY MESSENGER
IMPATIENT drivers hoping for the dismantling of three sets of traffic lights in Islington suffered a disappointment this week.
Transport for London (TfL) admitted defeat in its bid to remove lights at three junctions after Islington Council quashed the scheme.
The plan was to remove lights at the junctions of Liverpool Road and Islington Park Street in Islington, Roman Way and Mackenzie Road in Holloway and St John Street and Owen Street in Finsbury. The aim was to achieve a six per cent cut in hold-ups for drivers. Islington’s Labour environment chief Councillor Paul Smith said the proposals would have resulted in the deaths of residents.
A Transport for London spokesperson said: “TfL has proposed 145 locations in London where traffic signals could be removed to help improve conditions for pedestrians and smooth traffic for road users.
“Although Islington Council has said they don't want to progress discussions on the three potential sites we proposed in Islington, we would be happy to discuss any alternative suggested locations they might like to put forward, should they wish to do so."