64. Surgeon Lieut.-Commander Bennettasked the Minister of Transport if he has yet come to a decision about the proposals submitted to him for an alternative main road from Lee-on-Solent as replacement for that road closed by the Admiralty during the war.
§ Mr. BarnesThe county council have submitted proposals for the replacement of the closed road. I regard these as generally satisfactory, but the cost, which is estimated at £90,000, seems too large an expenditure to be incurred in present economic conditions, particularly as there is already an alternative route. I consider, however, that a new alternative road should be provided as soon as the economic situation permits.
Surgeon Lieut.-Commander BennettWhile thanking the Minister for his reply, may I ask if he has in mind the continuing waste which is being brought about by the diversion of traffic from 29 the north and east through the village of Stubbington, north-west of Lee-on-Solent, and also the congestion and danger on this inadequate road? Is he also aware that the prolongation of this road's closing is handicapping a seaside resort, one of whose greatest assets should be its accessibility?
§ Mr. BarnesYes, Sir. As I have already indicated, I do not consider the alternative road satisfactory, but in view of the restrictions on capital expenditure I regret that this is not possible at present. Its urgency and needs are, however, fully recognised.