§ 12. Mr. Wallerasked the Secretary of State for Transport when he expects construction work to commence on the A629/A650 Airedale route.
§ Mr. Michael SpicerA decision will be announced very shortly on the outstanding statutory orders for the Kildwick to Beechcliffe section. The timing of the start of work depends on the decision.
§ Mr. WallerWhen considering the speed at which future decisions about this road are reached, will my hon. Friend bear in mind the strongly held feeling in the whole of the Aire valley that the new road is vital to the area's future economic prosperity? Is he aware that plans and inquiries relating to this route have been going on for over 20 years, and that a long period has elapsed since the public inquiry on the side road orders relating to the Kildwick to Beechcliffe section?
§ Mr. SpicerI am aware of the great interest that my hon. Friend has taken in this matter. I cannot, however, prejudge or prejudice the decision, which, as I have said, will be made soon.
§ Mr. PikeDoes the Minister recognise how important north-east Lancashire feels the completion of the Airedale route and the link of that route to the M65 and the M1 are, because it is important to have another east-west Lancashire to Yorkshire crossing?
§ Mr. SpicerI am aware of the great interest that is felt about this road in the area that the hon. Gentleman has mentioned. I must repeat that I cannot say anything that will prejudice the decision.