§ 18. Mr. Goronwy Robertsasked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the proposal for a new bridge over the estuary at Caernarvon.
§ Mr. Gibson-WattAn application by Caernarvon Borough Council for planning permission to construct a bridge was referred to my right hon. and learned Friend by the Caernarvon County Council as one involving a substantial departure from the approved development plan. On 28th July, my right hon. and learned Friend issued a direction to the county council requiring it to refer the application to him for determination.
§ Mr. RobertsWhile thanking the Minister for that reply, which I think will give a measure of assurance to my constituents, may I ask whether he is aware that the previous bridge which had to be demolished was a major amenity for the people of Caernarvon, providing as it did access to a safe and salutary area of relaxation? Does he recall that about three years ago there was no difficulty about providing a serviceable Bailey bridge for the purposes of the Investiture? What my constituents want to know is why there has been this protracted delay for the last three years in providing a bridge to replace the one which for generations was a necessary means of communication for the people of the Royal Borough.
§ Mr. Gibson-WattThis is a quite long story and I should be happy to speak at length to the right hon. Gentleman about it. All I can say now is that as there is to be a public local inquiry it is impossible to say when any decision will definitely be given.