HC Deb 13 July 1938 vol 338 cc1325-6
70. Mr. Leach

asked the Minister of Transport whether he will reconsider his decision to make a grant of public funds for the road widening scheme at Newby Bridge, Windermere, in view of the fact that the people in the district do not want it; that the existing road is remarkably free from accidents; and that the amenities of a beauty spot will be spoiled, as the Lancashire County Council has now declined to modify its tree-cutting scheme?

Mr. Burgin

I am unable to withdraw my promise to make a grant from the Road Fund towards the cost of this scheme. The Lancashire County Council, as the responsible highway authority, decided that the correction of the alignment and the widening of this section of road were necessary in the interests of traffic and public safety. I understand that during the last two years there have been 37 accidents at this point.

Mr. Leach

Does the right hon. Gentleman not know that those accidents were very trivial indeed, and that this scheme will not be an improvement in the least degree, but will merely facilitate increased speeds by motor cars and an increase of accidents?

Mr. Burgin

Well, I am acting on the recommendations of the local county council.