HC Deb 27 March 1968 vol 761 cc1525-6
22 and 32. Mr. Wingfield Digby

asked the Minister of Transport (1) whether she will take steps to expedite decisions on the line of future road schemes, especially by-passes, so that local planning authorities can give prompt decisions on development plans;

(2) whether she will take action to obviate the delays in fixing the lines of future road schemes and in informing local planning authorities, so as to enable the latter to settle planning applications without delay.

Mr. Swingler

The lines of future trunk roads are fixed as expeditiously as possible in accordance with the statutory procedures laid down in the Highways Act, 1959. Local planning authorities are consulted and kept fully informed.

Mr. Digby

Yes, but is the Minister aware that the indecision of her Ministry is holding up the development of many alternative routes, particularly bypasses, and that this is having a very frustrating and annoying effect? Will she take real steps to hurry up the decision?

Mr. Swingler

I am not quite sure to what point the hon. Member is referring, but if it is the case which we have been considering, the planning applications were not referred to the Ministry of Transport at all. I shall certainly be very pleased to look into further details if the hon. Gentleman will give me the cases he has in mind.

Mr. Brooks

Is my hon. Friend aware that there are examples in my own constituency where there does appear to have been very dilatory action on the part not only of his Ministry but of the Ministry of Housing also? As far as he is concerned, would he consider, as a matter of regular routine, publishing in these cases a full account of the chronology of events which have led to the completion of the major projects?

Mr. Swingler

If my hon. Friend will supply me with details I will certainly look into them. Obviously we do not want to be responsible for holding up developments or creating red tape in this respect. Both my hon. Friend and other hon. Gentlemen will be aware of the difficulties connected with the forward planning of road schemes and the effect these may have in rendering some land sterile. If my hon. Friend will supply me with details of other land he has in mind I will certainly investigate them thoroughly.