10:14am Saturday 20th March 2010
By Reader's letter
I thank Paul Hepworth for his erudite description of the traffic light control systems in York, (Subtle system, Letters March 13).
However, these systems still have to do what the programmers tell them, and therefore the system is open to political flavours and requirements.
Anyone driving around York can see that the lights are designed to hold traffic. Most junctions could easily be made to enable traffic to flow more easily than it does at present. How many times is traffic held at pedestrian crossings with no pedestrian in sight?
These crossings are supposed to detect whether or not there is anyone waiting to use them.
And they propose putting four of them at Micklegate Bar!
Clifton Green enables cycling priority but does nothing for queuing motorists, the subsequent pollution or the residents of Westminster Road.
With more than 200 roads in the city being closed over the last few years it is not surprising that traffic is clogged on the roads that are left.
In my view, if I can drive or cycle down someone’s street, they should be able to drive or cycle down mine.
Car sharing is good and practised by people who are able to do it, but we must also respect the freedom of people to do what they wish with their property.
Cycling also is good, but it isn’t the answer to everything and totally impractical for some people.
Finally, City of York Council (the cycling council!) and others should note that the more people are forced to do things, the more resistance will grow.
I trust that prospective candidates for Parliament and council will openly state their intentions regarding future traffic systems in York. Then we’ll know where to put our cross.
Steve Helsdon, Howe Hill Close, Holgate, York.
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