'Green wave' motoring set for comeback

Motorists could be greeted with more green lights following a change of direction by the Government.

Previous Department for Transport (DfT) guidelines did not encourage "green wave" systems of sensors, whereby drivers who keep to the speed limit trigger a succession of green traffic lights ahead.

But new fuel taxation guidelines could mean more councils will take up the green wave initiative.

The RAC's motoring strategist Adrian Tink said: "Green wave is a commonsense win-win initiative that will actually help motorists as they go about their daily lives as well as reduce carbon emissions.

"It's used very successfully in other countries and it would be great to see motorists up and down the UK benefit from its widespread introduction.

"Tackling climate change is one of the single most important issues we face, and cutting road transport CO2 emissions will play an important part in that.

"Let's hope this is the start of motoring being seen by policymakers as more than just an easy target for tax revenue."

The Campaign for Better Transport was more cautious about the initiative. Spokesman Richard George said: "They are fantastic so far as making the best available use of space and allowing drivers to drive in a smooth and therefore more efficient manner.

"But they don't tackle congestion in the long term because they don't give people alternatives to driving."

A DfT spokesperson said: "Tackling climate change is one of the single most important issues we face, and cutting road transport CO2 emissions will play an important part in that.

"Urban traffic control systems, like green wave, help tackle congestion and vehicle emissions in urban areas, and a number are already being progressed as local major schemes.

"Our new guidance regarding fuel taxation will mean that greater priority will now be given to this type of scheme."