‘LTNs and ULEZ are distinct subjects and should not be confused with each other’

• JOHN Hartley’s letter on behalf of Barnsbury and Laycock Community Streets displays the obfuscation and muddled thinking typical of his small but vociferous pressure group, and its headline (Poll shows LTNs have the public’s support in capital, August 11) gives a misleading impression.

Results of the Redfield & Wilton transport survey cited by Mr Hartley found that 25 per cent of
those polled were undecided on the issue of LTNs, low traffic neighbourhoods, a figure that should be added to the 17 per cent who expressed opposition, making 42 per cent opposed or not in favour, with 58 per cent indicating support.

The split on ULEZ, the ultra low emission zone, identified in the survey was identical to that on LTNs.

The survey was conducted before the Uxbridge by-election on July 20, which brought ULEZ and other traffic-control matters to national attention.

No details of the polling sample were provided beyond the vague term “Londoners”.

Given the greatly increased public awareness of the issues, can the results of the Redfield & Wilton survey now be relied upon?

LTNs and ULEZ are distinct subjects and should not be confused with each other, though it suits some campaigners to do so.

LTNs are by their nature a “neighbourhood” issue, subject to consultation with local people, and the interactive map inviting comments that Mr Hartley refers to is part of the consultation process instigated by Islington Council.

It is easy to pick out from the map comments for and against LTNs, and we await the council’s full analysis.

However Mr Hartley’s claims, based on the views of a self-selecting minority of voters – that 66 per cent support “meaningful changes in the area” and 22 per cent support “some change” – tell us nothing.

As he admits, these desired “changes” cover everything from speeding drivers to addressing the litter problem.

When it comes to LTNs, Mr Hartley’s conclusions are meaningless.

NAME AND ADDRESS SUPPLIED, N1