HC Deb 01 April 1952 vol 498 cc1404-5
42. Mr. T. Driberg

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he is aware of the inconvenience caused to residents in Glendale Road, Burnham-on-Crouch, Essex, by the poor condition of the road, and of the hardship that will fall on some of them when they are required to pay their share of the proposed improvements; and if he will expedite approval of such works as are most urgently necessary on conditions which will, so far as possible, alleviate this hardship.

Mr. Marples

My right hon. Friend is looking into this case to see whether the condition of the road warrants the work being done in spite of the present financial restrictions. Objections to the apportioned costs have been determined by the magistrates, and there has been no appeal.

Mr. Driberg

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the condition of the road is now extremely bad, and that of the inhabitants of the road about half seem to approve of the proposed improvement and the other half oppose it because among them are old age pensioners and others who simply cannot afford the sum required from them in contributions? Can he put forward a constructive solution of this difficulty?

Mr. Marples

My right hon. Friend has called for a report on whether the work can be carried out. Whether it is carried out or not must depend upon the report that is received. I would point out to the hon. Gentleman that there has been no appeal from the apportionment of costs that was made by the magistrates.

Mr. Driberg

When is the latest date by which the appeal should have been lodged?

Mr. Marples

There is a further appeal to the Minister on limited grounds after the magistrates have made their order, but in point of fact that right has not been exercised.

Mr. Driberg

Is there still time to exercise it?

Mr. Marples

I do not think so, but I will look into the point.