§ 19. Mr. Costainasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what consultations he has had with the relevant authorities in the planning of road access for which he is responsible to the proposed roll-on/roll-off car ferry service from Folkestone, with a view to avoiding traffic congestion in Folkestone.
§ Mr. Graham PageAccess to the car ferry terminal is a matter for Folkestone Borough Council as highway authority. The borough engineer has asked my Department to convene a meeting of the authorities concerned to consider the effect on the town's roads of the increased traffic which will be generated. As a preliminary, further information is being sought from British Railways about the extent of their proposals.
§ Mr. CostainDoes my hon. Friend appreciate that when British Railways applied for planning permission they indicated that two ferries were operating? They have now changed that number to six. The Minister will appreciate that this will cause havoc with the traffic. Will he consider giving a bigger grant than the £22,000 to meet this change?
§ Mr. PageAll these matters will be considered for the proposed meeting on the subject. I was aware of the increase in the number suggested by British Railways, and I am seeking further information from them about it.