I READ in the Gazette today the mad cap plans of the Mayor of London to limit the time pedestrians have to cross roads in Ealing.

If he does that then he is asking for trouble.

A well managed transport system that also wants to encourage more walking and cycling needs to encourage cyclists and walkers (we all are pedestrians) ahead of other transport methods.

By getting more people walking and cycling you can cut the need for many car journeys.

There are many junctions in Acton, Chiswick and Ealing where the time given for pedestrians to cross us currently not adequate.This means that if you have walking difficulties, are walking with children, have a pram, or are not as mobile as most then you will be more at risk under Boris's plans.

If his mad idea is introduced in Ealing then I would expect him to personally apologise to the friends and family of anyone injured or killed because of his poorly judged plan.

CLLR GARY MALCOLM

Transport spokesman for Ealing Lib-Dems and an annoyed walker and cyclist

Via email

[25a0] EASING the flow of traffic, with fewer delays on our roads, is a big request, not only for many residents in our borough but also across

London.

Ealing Council is committed to improving the flow of traffic. There are just too many pinch points slowing us down and causing us intense frustration.

I have discussed this with Boris Johnson and he will support our efforts. One idea is to 'bag over' some traffic lights, particularly off peak.

Another idea is to change some traffic lights into roundabouts, while

another is to stop parking right up to the corners on busy junctions. All this will ease the flow of traffic

I was encouraged that the Gazette picked up this issue last week. You reported Boris's views and then published a thoughtful editorial.

The quality of the environment where we live is vital. We all appreciate that sometimes our needs, when pedestrians, differs from those

when we are drivers and differ again when we are cyclists.

However, with some careful planning we should be able to balance these needs. Strategic crossing points, with refuges for pedestrians, is one idea.

Another is raised tables on side road entrances to slow traffic. Advance stop lines at busy junctions would help cyclists.

Some weeks ago when the Gazette first reported on the council's plans to improve the flow of traffic, I asked for ideas. I was hugely encouraged that so many responded, and I hope that we will generate a debate through your newspaper.

This is a listening council. We want to listen to the views of the residents who drive, walk, cycle and use public transport. With support of residents, and support from Boris Johnson, we will make it easier for us all to move about the borough. Keep the ideas flowing.

CLLR DAVID MILLIGAN

Cabinet member for regeneration and transport

Ealing Council david.millican@ealing.gov.uk