HC Deb 05 February 1958 vol 581 cc1167-8
28. Mr. Sorensen

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what further information he has in respect of the Eastern Avenue extension through the Borough of Leyton, particularly as affecting tenants and householders whose houses will be demolished.

Mr. Nugent

I am unable at present to add to my reply of 4th December.

Mr. Sorensen

Does the Minister appreciate that this prolonged delay extending over many years, despite all that the Leyton Borough Council has been able to do, is causing great hardship and anxiety to householders in my constituency, many of whom cannot sell their houses because it is known publicly that these houses are likely to be demolished? Can the Minister do something to expedite this matter?

Mr. Nugent

The general problem exists in other areas besides the constituency of the hon. Member and the Government are making a detailed study to see whether there is any way of relieving what is known as "planning blight". Regarding the problem in the hon. Member's constituency, there is considerable difficulty in deciding how this road extension shall go in such a congested area, but we are proceeding as fast as we can, and I can assure the hon. Member that we shall not delay matters.