ABSTRACT
This chapter demonstrates that long before the 1970s decline of the postwar consensus and the rise of overtly market-led approaches, plan-realization was a matter of negotiation in which traffic congestion had exchange value and created opportunities for the accumulation of capital. It explores the role of traffic and planning policy in the relationships between capital and property. Both the London County Council (LCC) traffic planners and the Ministry of Transport desperately wanted a roundabout at St Giles' Circus. Traffic congestion shines a light on the ambiguities of planning in London. The driving force behind the St Giles' Circus development was the LCC's desire to reduce congestion with a new gyratory intersection. The Pimlico Precinct was the first scheme of its kind to be installed in an existing neighbourhood rather than a redevelopment area, and was hailed by Westminster Council as a great success.
