How do sequential traffic lights stay green along a through route?

I seem to recall Reading, Berks, more than 50 years ago, having traffic lights whereby if you travelled below 30mph along the main through route, and the lights were green, then the remaining lights stayed green. Some kind of linkage, I imagine.

Asked on 5 May 2012 by KA, Norwich

Answered by Honest John
That's how Euston and Marylebone Roads used to be before they messed up the sequence to create congestion that they could then use to support the Congestion Charge. Back in the 1970s I've driven all the way from Tottenham Court Road to Edgware Road non-stop.
Similar questions
I have a Ford Kuga automatic. When stopped for a couple of minutes at traffic lights my habit is to put on the handbrake and select neutral. My adult son is adamant that leaving the car in 'drive' and...
A lot of cars nowadays automatically shut off the engine when the car stops. I do in it my 10 year old Mazda MX-5 at temporary traffic lights under the assumption that I am saving petrol. My question is:...
When I started driving in 1968 even major roadworks were only slightly disruptive of traffic flow and usually managed by a man holding a stop/go board. Now, even minor works on little-used country roads...
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer