HC Deb 25 February 1976 vol 906 cc377-8
25. Mr. Wall

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what progress is being made over a northern approach road to the Humber Bridge.

Dr. Gilbert

This is a matter for the Humberside County Council as highway authority for the scheme.

Mr. Wall

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the completion of the Humber Bridge will generate a great deal more traffic in my constituency? In view of the recently announced delay in the completion of the Beverley south-west bypass, does not the hon. Gentleman agree that a northern approach road is essential to prevent Beverley from being overwhelmed and damage being caused to the famous Minster?

Dr. Gilbert

I understand that traffic predictions indicate that traffic flows will be heaviest in an east-west direction rather than a north-south direction. Be that as it may, it is for the Humberside County Council to accord priorities in this matter.

Mr. James Johnson

While I do not support any plea in any quarter regarding the opening of the Humber Bridge, may I ask my hon. Friend what is happening to South Docks Road, which traverses the whole length of my constituency—

Mr. Speaker

Order. Does it go to the bridge?

Mr. Johnson

Yes. It begins just east of the Humber Bridge. It is essential that action be taken to relieve congestion in Hull.

Dr. Gilbert

I am much obliged to you, Mr. Speaker, for coming to my aid. Now I know where the road is. I have had muttered information to the effect that the road is already receiving an extremely high priority.

Mr. John H. Osborn

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that traffic coming from the industrial area—whether it will use the proposed bridge or not—is finding during this transitional period that the signposts are extremely difficult to follow? Will the hon. Gentleman ensure that there is adequate signposting to the other ports of the United Kingdom?

Dr. Gilbert

If the hon. Gentleman has any difficulties with local signposting, I should be grateful if he would write to me about them.