§ 11. Mr. Roy Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has received concerning noise and other environmental inconvenience caused by the proximity to the M4 motorway suffered by residents living in the St. Julian's area of Newport, Gwent; and what action he is proposing to alleviate the difficulties.
§ Mr. Stradling ThomasAfter representations about the widening of the M4 motorway through Newport, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State decided in 1982 to accept lower qualifying noise levels. As a result, some 300 properties, 75 of which are in the St. Julian's area, are to be provided with insulation against traffic noise. More recently, representations have been received from residents in the area to the west of the Caerleon interchange; these properties are not directly affected by the road widening and do not qualify for noise insulation.
§ Mr. HughesDoes the Minister not appreciate that the Welsh Office's sheer insensitivity to the problems of those in the St. Julian's area is appalling? There seems to have been an attempt to hide behind obscure regulations. Why does not the Minister personally take his officials to see the problem and to meet those who are suffering? He might then come to a different conclusion and take some urgent action.
§ Mr. Stradling ThomasI reject any accusation of insensitivity on the part of the Welsh Office. The regulations governing this matter were passed by the House. Of course we are considering the matter seriously. We appreciate the difficulties, but there are no powers to deal with properties that are more than 300m from the road. Proposals for relieving the congestion—which will make a major contribution—are under consideration.