§ 8. Mr. Beswickasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation if he is aware of the anxiety created among many residents of Ickenham by the proposal to route the D ring road through that district; the reasons for this proposed change in the route; when he expects a final decision to be made; and when he estimates work on the road in that area will be started.
§ The Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation(Mr. Harold Watkinson)Yes, Sir. I received a protest from the Ickenham Residents' Association but as the proposed road is the responsibility of the Middlesex County Council I have referred it to that council. I understand that the county council is now considering a number of possible lines of route between Western Avenue and the proposed Aylesbury Radial, but until I receive its proposals I am unable to make any further comment.
§ Mr. BeswickDoes not the Minister appreciate that an absolute blight is hanging over the homes involved so long as these proposals are being discussed, and that the people are unable to sell their property if they are compelled, for other reasons, to move? Will he do all he can to ensure that a decision is reached as speedily as possible so that the people may know what their position is?
§ Mr. WatkinsonI do not at all disagree with what the hon. Gentleman says. It places property owners in a most difficult position when there are doubts of this kind. I hope that what has been said in the House may also spur on the local authorities to a decision.