HC Deb 05 March 1951 vol 485 cc7-8
9. Squadron Leader Burden

asked the Minister of Transport on what date the surfacing of the carriageway between Hyde Park Corner and Marble Arch was completed; what was the cost; and why the new surface has deteriorated so rapidly.

Mr. Barnes

I assume that the hon. and gallant Member refers to the carriageway of Park Lane. This work was carried out by the Westminster City Council in July, 1950, and cost approximately £17,500. I understand that some small areas, mostly near bus stops, are not satisfactory and that the Council are investigating the reason for this.

Squadron Leader Burden

Is the Minister aware that I was referring to the carriageway inside the Park? As it appears from his reply that the Park Lane surface is equally bad, I shall have to put this Question down to the Minister of Works?

Mr. Barnes

I think that that is a most unfair allegation. The Westminster City Council maintains a very high standard of highways work and, because a limited part of some extensive work has been found to be faulty, I do not think one can blame the Council for that.

Mr. Keeling

Is the Minister aware that, as it is only a little of the granite binding—the chippings—that have worked loose, and, as this is a new though very satisfactory anti-skid surface, the Westminster City Council may be forgiven if the process is still in its experimental stage?

Mr. Barnes

I would suggest to the hon. Gentleman that the process of education should start on his own side of the House.

Brigadier Medlicott

Is the Minister aware that this surface was so extraordinarily satisfactory from the beginning that half the motorists in London went that way to see how good it was?