HC Deb 09 February 1966 vol 724 cc392-3
52. Mr. Corfield

asked the Minister of Transport when she intends to approve for grant aid the scheme to complete the Avonmouth-Aust New Road; and whether, in view of the anticipated opening of the Severn Bridge, she will consider the construction of this new road as one of urgency, which should be approved for commencement in the next financial year.

Mr. Swingler

My right hon. Friend is prepared to earmark funds for an early start of work by the Gloucestershire County Council, the responsible highway authority. Her Divisional Road Engineer is discussing a timetable with it.

Mr. Corfield

I thank the hon. Gentleman. Will he ask the Minister to glance at the map to see how impossible, for the heavy traffic involved, is the route that will have to be taken if this extension is not carried out?

Mr. Swingler

It is a question of how quickly the county council can prepare a scheme. We understand the urgency of the matter and reckon that construction will take about 20 months. As soon as the county council is ready with its scheme, my right hon. Friend will make a decision.

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