HC Deb 10 March 1969 vol 779 c966
30. Mr. Emery

asked the Minister of Transport what money has been allocated for new road building and for road improvements in East Devon for 1968–69, 1969–70, 1970–71 and 1971–72; and what percentage is this of expenditure for the county of Devon.

Mr. Bob Brown

Since the answer contains a number of figures, I will, with permission circulate it in the OFFICIL REPORT.

Mr. Emery

Will this allow for the major improvements on the coastal road and at the same time for the alleviation of the extreme traffic blockage which now occurs in the summer months at the west end of the Honiton by-pass by the Gittisham bridge, where four lanes have to come into two over a narrow and low bridge? This is a major improvement which is essential for the through flow of tourist traffic.

Mr. Brown

I am sure the hon. Member would not expect me to go into detailed schemes. I am sure also that he will be pleased to learn that in the coming year it is hoped to commit 19 times as much money to East Devon as in the current year.

Following is the information: Taking East Devon to be that part of the county lying east of a line Exeter-Tiverton-Bampton, the position regarding money from my Ministry for trunk and principal road improvements is: 1968–69: £49,000 worth of scheme have been or will be committed, representing 1 per cent. of planned commitments for the county as a whole. 1969–70: It is hoped to commit £929,500 worth of schemes, representing approximately 27 per cent. of planned commitments for the whole country. 1970–71 and 1971–72: Position for this period cannot be fully forecast at present, but it is hoped to commit £13 million for a length of M5 in East Devon.