HC Deb 01 March 1960 vol 618 cc1004-5
4. Mr. Hendry

asked the Minister of Works the purpose and probable duration of the excavations at present completely blocking the north footway of Birdcage Walk near its junction with Great George Street, Westminster; and whether he will, meantime, to secure the comfort and safety of pedestrians crossing St. James's Park, construct a temporary footpath connecting the lakeside path with a new exit at the north end of the lodge.

Lord John Hope

These excavations are due to alterations in the routeing of Post Office cables necessitated by the forthcoming widening of Great George Street and Storey's Gate. I hope that the footpath will be in use again by the end of March; meanwhile a section has now been roped off for pedestrian use.

Mr. Deedes

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind that not only in this park, but also in Green Park, for the same reason, things are in a sad mess? As we approach the summer months, when there will be a large number of visitors to enjoy and admire these gardens, can my right hon. Friend do something about speeding up this work?

Lord John Hope

I am sure that the work is going ahead as quickly as possible, and I think my hon. Friend will find that things will brighten just as the weather does.