HC Deb 12 May 1971 vol 817 cc358-9
16. Mr. Arthur Davidson

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what part of Clayton-le-Moors will be affected by the new trunk road for which his Department is responsible.

The Under-Secretary of State for the Environment (Mr. Michael Heseltine)

Stage 1 of the proposed Calder Valley route is now being investigated. This would pass through the Clayton-le-Moors area but it is not possible to say through which parts.

Mr. Davidson

I understand the Minister's difficulties, but will he come to an early decision about the exact route that this road is likely to take? Is he aware that the present uncertainty is causing great anxiety to my constituents, many of whom are in an impossible position because they cannot sell their houses and do not know whether to spend money on improvements?

Mr. Heseltine

The results of our investigation are expected this year. Dependent on this investigation, the draft proposals for the route affected at Claytonle-Moors should be published in 1972.

Mr. Waddington

Recognising how vital it is for industrial growth in North-East Lancashire that a speedy start be made on this, would the Minister indicate when construction is likely to start?

Mr. Heseltine

Assuming that there are no delays in the provision of the capital or other delays, work should start in 1975 and be completed in 1977.