Marlow Bridge

HC Deb 05 December 1962 vol 668 cc1290-1

12. Mr. John Hall

asked the Minister of Transport if he has decided the future of Marlow Bridge; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Marples

I have now received the views of the highway authorities on the proposals to which I referred in my Reply of 1st August, 1962, to my hon. Friend. I will consider them as quickly as possible.

Mr. Hall

Is my right hon. Friend aware that, although the Marlow Council and indeed the local authorities welcome the proposal that the by-pass for Marlow should be brought forward in the programme, there is nevertheless a very serious problem affecting the bridge itself. It is deteriorating rapidly and is getting into a very dangerous condition. Unless something is done very shortly there will be no passage across the Thames at that point.

Mr. Marples

I am not too sure about that, but the reply of the Buckingham County Council to our proposals has just been received. It is dated 29th November. The reply from Berkshire was received a little earlier. Both replies are generally favourable to our proposals but with qualifications which we must examine urgently. I must say, in view of these replies, that it seems possible that the hitherto divided views of the local interests will now become reconciled. If we can reconcile the amenity and local interests with efficiency, we shall have done a good job.

Mr. Ede

Will the right hon. Gentleman consult those who pass under the bridge as well as those who go over it? There is a serious hindrance to the proper navigation of the Thames.

Mr. Marples

Yes. I will certainly do that.