§ 39. Mr. William Palingasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation the increased distance that heavy lorries must travel which have to leave the Great North Road north of Doncaster and finally return to the Great North Road south of Doncaster because of the weight limit allowed over the River Don bridge at Doncaster.
§ Mr. MolsonThe assessed weight limit for vehicles using the River Don Bridge at Doncaster is 30 tons. The recommended route for vehicles in excess of this limit, up to 80 tons weight, involves an additional distance of about 15 miles.
§ Mr. PalingIs the Minister aware of the serious dislocation which is caused to West Riding trade and commerce? Is he aware that these new routes, as has been said of another part of the country, are often down what can only be termed country lanes and that the position is becoming worse each week? Is the Minister satisfied that the new Doncaster by-pass will give the anticipated relief to trade and commerce of the West Riding?
§ Mr. MolsonIt was the two considerations first put forward by the hon. Member that induced my right hon. Friend to give the rebuilding of this bridge such priority that it has already been authorised. As regards the second part of his question, we are satisfied that the Doncaster by-pass, when completed, will be able to deal with the traffic problem there.