An email alert from the DSA:
New powers to help councils redraw the map
Local authorities will be given greater control over how their roads appear on maps and satnav systems – helping them to better direct traffic – under bureaucracy-cutting proposals set out today by Local and Regional Transport Minister Norman Baker.
At present, if a council wants to change the classification of one of its roads – for example downgrading an A road to a B road – it has to be approved by the Department for Transport.
The Government proposes devolving decision making to councils as they are best-placed to decide the classification of local roads. This would help them make clear to drivers which roads are most suitable for through-journeys, potentially reducing congestion on local routes.
Norman Baker said:
“The current system dates back to the 1960s and is a hangover from the days of Whitehall-knows-best. I believe in giving power to local people. This reform will cut red tape and mean councils can better control traffic in their area.
More information
- read the full press release
- have your say on the proposals
This is a privatisation-type scheme by this Mickey Mouse government we have. I’d suggest anyone with concerns should use that second link and make their feelings known.
The existing system has worked fine for decades. The new system would mean lunatics who get on to councils would be involved – and you don’t get many lunatics who all think the same way! Going from town to town would be a nightmare – and they think there are too many deaths amongst young or new drivers now?