HC Deb 27 March 1968 vol 761 c1531
44. Mr. Luard

asked the Minister of Transport when work will begin on the proposed improvements to the Oxford northern bypass.

Mr. Carmichael

As soon as practicable after we have made the necessary Orders under the Highways Act, 1959, objections to which we are now endeavouring to resolve.

Mr. Luard

While everybody would wish householders affected by the proposal to have every chance of making statutory objections, will my hon. Friend bear in mind that the people of Oxford have been waiting for over 10 years for these improvements to be made? May I express the hope that the improvements will start as early as possible?

Mr. Carmichael

It is hoped that if the objections can be resolved and there is no public inquiry it may be possible to start work at the end of this year.

Mr. Lane

Can the hon. Gentleman expedite the statutory processes for the new Chesterton Bridge Road in Cambridge, about which I am in correspondence with him?

Mr. Carmichael

The statutory processes are not easy to expedite if one wishes to give citizens and local authorities the very desirable right to defend the amenities of the countryside.