Losing White Lines From Roads 'Cuts Speeding'

Recent research across the capital shows that removing white lines from the centre of urban roads dramatically cuts the number of speeding cars.The study carried out by Transport for London, (which controls major roads in the capital) across three routes showed vehicle speeds fell by up to 13 per cent. The roads chosen were ones that had just been re-surfaced. The most dramatic results were recorded on Seven Sisters Road, in north London, which has a 30mph limit. The speed of southbound traffic fell by 4.1mph from an average of 32.4mph to 28.3mph - almost 13 per cent - while northbound traffic speeds fell from 31.4mph to 29mph. The report concluded: ‘Centre lines and hatching can provide a psychological sense of confidence to drivers that no vehicles will encroach on ‘their’ side of the road.

TfL says the practice could be expanded to more routes - subject to ‘careful analysis of the site to determine if it is appropriate’. Roads where markings are used to highlight particular hazards, such as approaches to complex junctions, would not be considered.

Road Safety Campaigners back the plans to remove white lines. Amy Aeron-Thomas, executive director of crash reduction charity RoadPeace, said: ‘RoadPeace welcomes the news that white line removal has led to significant speed decreases on 30 mph roads. At a time when government is promoting cycling and walking but cutting enforcement budgets, self enforcing measures are key.TfL is to be credited with trialling this measure. We look forward to its wider use, including with 20mph roads.’

What do you think? Is the removal of white lines a good idea? add comments below