| Topic: | Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Re:Chiswick predictions for 2026 | |
| Posted by: | Francis Rowe | |
| Date/Time: | 06/01/26 09:49:00 |
| It is slightly surprising to see Michael go to Def Con 2 over what I don't think I am wrong in thinking was a reasonably uncontentious post about bus lanes. He usually has to be contradicted at least four or five times before he gets to that puce-faced, vein-in-forehead throbbing level of rage. His season of ill-will to all men may last 12 months but it is still out of character. If it does reflect other strains in his life, perhaps the response on our part should be more sympathetic. I was broadly aware of the funding situation for the bus lane plan which is why said an announcement would be made rather than any actual physical changes for this year. The reason I thought this would happen is that TfL is starting to recognise that the bus service is entering a vicious cycle of decline. Passenger numbers are down and it has confirmed that his creates a financial imperative to cut services. TfL has also stated that an important reason for falling passenger numbers is slower bus speeds. Rush hour speeds are often below walking pace. Buses are used for more passenger journeys in London each day than all other forms of public transport and cycling combined so this decline has to be addressed. The council's officers did analyse the issue of whether removing the bus gate could be offset by the restoration of bus lanes. Their report states: “This could be expected to improve journey times for buses, since the lanes provide additional space particularly on approach to traffic signals. It is noted again that the bus gate at Acton Lane was introduced in lieu of bus lanes allowed within the original scheme and it is the view of Officers that the additional priority afforded to buses by these lanes would allow for the removal of the bus gate.” As for whether an LTN south of Chiswick High Road would be a viable solution for the problems currently being experienced by residents of that area, I think most of us would assume that if this was workable it would have been the council's first option. It has money set aside for more ANPR cameras and it would bring in much needed extra revenues. The reasons they apparently have concluded it is unworkable seem very obvious. Diverting traffic flows down Town Hall Avenue and the already stressed Sutton Lane North would be a very bad idea aesthetically and practically. I presume there would also be zero support for the idea within the area but it would be interesting to hear the views of people who actually live there. |