HC Deb 21 February 1972 vol 831 cc883-4
16. Sir A. Meyer

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what is the average estimated cost of providing an underpass for cattle when a newly constructed dual carriageway divides a farm in two.

Mr. Peter Thomas

The cost will depend on site and other conditions but will normally lie in the range beween £5,000 and £20,000.

Sir A. Meyer

Will my right hon. and learned Friend agree that the range of costs indicated would be met many times over in the prevention of loss of life and damage to livestock which arise when cattle have to be driven across dual carriageways?

Mr. Thomas

Yes, Sir. When farms are severed by new roads it is standard practice to consider whether the two sections should be joined by an underpass or an over-bridge. I know of my hon. Friend's interest in this matter, because he wrote to me on behalf of his farmers, and I shall be replying to his letter very soon.