TRAFFIC LIGHTS AND PEDESTRIAN CROSSING AT HIGH STREET (Installation and removal)

Mr Ho Kah Leong asked the Minister for Law and National Development why the traffic control lights and pedestrian crossing which had been newly installed at High Street have been removed; and what expenditure was incurred in the installation and removal.

Mr E. W. Barker: Mr Speaker, Sir, traffic control lights for the crossing of pedestrians were installed at High Street following a number of complaints received during the Pedestrian Safety Campaign early this year. The experiment was not a success and caused confusion to motorists and pedestrians, as a result of which the control lights were removed. About $450 was incurred in their installation and removal.

Mr Ho Kah Leong: (In Mandarin): From the answer given by the Minister, we know that the installation and dismantling of the traffic lights, though it cost only $450, was undoubtedly a waste. Can the Minister say that from now on, before the authorities concerned set up similar traffic lights, even on an experimental basis, sufficient consideration should first be given?

Mr Barker: I cannot agree more with the Member that sufficient consideration should be given before traffic lights are installed. The sum incurred in this case was small - we were fortunate in that respect. But I agree with the Member that it was rather foolish to erect traffic lights close to a junction which already has traffic lights.