§ 90. Mr. Doddsasked the Minister of Transport if he will make a statement on the progress of the Dartford-Purfleet Tunnel, the planning and construction of the approach roads, and the prospects with regard to completion dates.
§ Mr. MarplesWork on the project, including the planning and construction of the approach roads, is up to schedule, and it should be completed in 1962.
§ Mr. Sydney Irvingasked the Minister of Transport (1) if he has yet been able to fix the level of tolls to be levied on users of the Dartford-Purfleet Tunnel;
(2) when he anticipates the Dartford Purfleet Tunnel will be ready for use;
(3) the cost to date of the Dartford Purfleet Tunnel; and what he anticipates the final cost will be.
§ Mr. MarplesThe cost of the Dartford Tunnel and its approach roads to date is some £7½ million, including contracts which have been let but not completed. The final cost is estimated at just over £11 million.
Between twelve and six months before the expected date of opening the Tunnel Committee must submit to me for confirmation its proposed schedule of toll charges. At the same time the proposals must be advertised so that an opportunity is given for objections and, if necessary, a public inquiry. I cannot therefore say at present what tolls are likely to be charged.
The tunnel should be ready for use in 1962.