§ 7. Mr. John Smithasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will announce the proposed starting date for the building of the Lanarkshire section of the M80 motorway, and when it is likely to be ready for use.
§ Mr. YoungerMy right hon. Friend will publish proposals for relieving the Lanarkshire section of A80 when current studies, which affect also the adjoining length of A80 within Glasgow, are completed.
§ Mr. SmithThe Minister will be aware that the studies have been going on for some time and that the problem for the people of Stews, through whose village the A80 now goes, is reaching disastrous proportions, particularly as the traffic is building up to the developments in Cumbernauld. Will the Government please take some steps immediately to announce a date for the start of the building of the motorway so that those people have some relief for the future?
§ Mr. YoungerI share the hon. Gentleman's concern at the traffic conditions on some parts of the road. For that reason I have recently authorised various traffic management measures, including the provision of pedestrian crossings, traffic lights and the removal of bollards. As soon as the studies to which I have referred are completed, I shall consult Glasgow Corporation about the priority to be given to the construction of the new parts of the road.