HC Deb 26 March 1958 vol 585 cc414-5
43. Mr. Cooper

asked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation whether he will make a further statement regarding the future of Blackwall Tunnel.

Mr. Watkinson

Yes, Sir. I am informing the London County Council that I am prepared to consider a scheme for the duplication of Blackwall Tunnel. I hope that it will be possible to begin work as soon as detailed plans and estimates have been considered and approved.

Mr. Cooper

Is my right hon. Friend aware that his announcement will give the greatest satisfaction to those many thousands of travellers who have suffered interminable hours in Blackwall Tunnel for many years? Can he give the House any indication when it is expected that this work will be completed?

Mr. Watkinson

I should like the work to start as soon as possible, but consulting engineers will probably have to be appointed and the old scheme may have to be looked at again. I agree with my hon. Friend that this is one of the worst traffic bottlenecks in London. I have told the L.C.C. it can go ahead and I hope it will expedite the work as much as possible.

Mrs. Corbet

Is the Minister aware that the London County Council will receive this news with the greatest gratification after many years of pressing for this scheme?

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