HC Deb 12 November 1934 vol 293 cc1518-9
43. Sir A. KNOX

asked the Minister of Transport what progress is being made with the construction of the Western Avenue; and when he expects that this road will be completed?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Approximately 6 miles of the Western Avenue in the Counties of London and Middlesex have been completed, and work is in progress upon a 4½ mile length between Greenford and Hillingdon. I have now offered grants to the Middlesex and Bucks County Councils towards the cost estimated at about £350,000 of completing the Westernmost portion of this arterial road. This last section involves engineering works of considerable magnitude, including the construction of a viaduct and several bridges, and it would be difficult to estimate the date when the road will be completed, but I have no reason to doubt that the highway authorities concerned will shortly complete arrangements for the prompt execution of the work.

Sir A. KNOX

Will the hon. Member take into consideration the fact that this road has been under construction for over 10 years and is very urgently desired?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

I think my answer proves that I have taken what steps I could.

Mr. WEST

Can the Minister inform the House what progress has been made with the eastern end of the road, from Shepherds Bush into Kensington?

Sir W. DAVISON

Is the Minister aware that the eastern end is the much more important part, and that there is a complete block down Wood Lane. What is stopping traffic is the fact that there is no bridge across the railway and that the traffic is pushed down Wood Lane through Shepherds Bush to Notting Hill Gate.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

I will take into consideration the views of my hon. Friends and look into the matter.

Mr. WEST

Is the hon. Member aware that this scheme has been under consideration for 35 years? When will a conclusion be reached?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

I have shown that I have taken steps to make progress in the matter.

Lieut.-Commander AGNEW

Will the Minister see that no ribbon development takes place?