§ 14. Mr. Formanasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what recent representations he has had from the residents of Beddington and Wallington, in Surrey, about the proposed route for the M23 north of Hooley.
§ Dr. GilbertIn the past six months the Department has received five letters from local residents or associations representing their interests.
§ Mr. FormanIs the Minister aware that, although he may have received only five representations, I have received a much larger number from residents in Beddington and Wallington who are worried not so much about the possibility of traffic congestion resulting from the M23 ending at Hooley as about property blight that continues because of the uncertainty that still exists? Will he take an early and unambiguous decision not to extend the motorway north of Hooley?
§ Dr. GilbertI am aware of the degree of public concern that has persisted over many years. I have had discussions with hon. Members who represent constituencies bordering on the hon. Gentleman's division. Property blight is a very serious matter. I am not sure whether the hon. Gentleman appreciates that, as a result of the decision that I took on the northern terminal, we recently lifted blight from 1,400 houses. Unfortunately, I shall not be in a position to make an unambiguous statement until the GLC has reported to us and we have had final discussions.