§ 11. Mr. Simon Burns (West Chelmsford)When he expects work to commence on strengthening Widford Bridge in Chelmsford. [81333]
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Mr. David Jamieson)The Highways Agency is carrying out detailed design and preparation of a scheme to replace the Widford bridge and expects work to start in August 2003. The agency intends to complete the scheme by February 2005.
§ Mr. BurnsI thank the Minister for that reply. Given the delays caused by the weight restrictions, especially in the morning and afternoon rush hours, the fact that the Minister's answer suggests that the commencement date has been brought forward a few months will be warmly welcomed by my constituents and me. If he can continue 499 to use his influence and bring it further forward—if that is not pushing my luck—we should be even more grateful to him.
§ Mr. JamiesonThe hon. Gentleman and I have exchanged considerable correspondence on this matter, especially earlier in the year when Chelmsford borough council implemented the width restrictions before all the necessary signs were in place.
§ Mr. JamiesonI was not going to make that point.
Due to the poor condition of the bridge, there has to be a temporary closure of the rail line, and most of that work will have to be done during the quieter winter period, so the hon. Gentleman will appreciate that there would be some difficulty in bringing the date further forward than 2005. I take his point, however, and we shall do whatever we can to bring the issue forward.