§ 33. Mr. Sorensenasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation if the road reconstruction now taking place in the area of Whipps Cross, Leyton, will be completed by October; whether the reconstruction is then to be extended to Whipps Cross Road and Lea Bridge Road; and what further consideration has been given to the provision of pedestrian crossings when the work is completed.
§ Mr. NugentI am informed that this scheme will be completed by October. I understand that it will not be extended then, but that the Leyton Borough Council, which is responsible for the improvement, intends to reconstruct the carriageways of the Whipps Cross roundabout. No further consideration has been given to the provision of pedestrian crossings.
§ Mr. SorensenCould not the hon. Gentleman draw the attention of those responsible for this undertaking to the need for adequate crossings, in view of the fact that even now the traffic is very intense and is likely to be more so in days to come? Further, is the hon. Gentleman satisfied that progress is being made as rapidly as possible and that every effort is being made to deal with the great congestion which is bound to arise when the buses return to the roads?
§ Mr. NugentThat job is going on pretty well up to schedule. As for 1100 pedestrian crossings, it is first for the local council to decide whether they are necessary. I am sure the local council will take note of what the hon. Member has said, but it would not be for the Ministry to initiate it.