North Circular Road-Neasden Lane

HC Deb 06 December 1963 vol 685 cc228-30W

Mr. Skeet

asked the Minister of Transport what is the purpose of the road developments at the junction of Neasden Lane and the North Circular Road; how many alternative schemes were available; and what were his reasons for rejecting each.

Mr. Ernest Marples

Their purpose is to improve this junction in such a way as to eliminate the present congestion and delays there, to provide for the likely forthcoming traffic over the next 20 years and at the same time to preserve the shopping area of Neasden Lane. The consulting engineers considered numerous possibilities before recommending a particular type of lay-out on which we are in consultation with the local authorities concerned.

I will write to my hon. Friend explaining why I have in mind to accept this recommendation, with Neasden Lane passing under the North Circular Road. But I emphasise that no final decision can be taken until draft Orders have been published and any objections have been considered.

Mr. Skeet

asked the Minister of Transport whether he has considered the Willesden Borough Council's proposals, details of which have been sent to him, suggesting a roundabout at the junction of Neasden Lane and the North Circular Road; and what are his objections thereto.

Mr. Marples

I have received no recent proposals from the Willesden Borough Council.

Mr. Skeet

asked the Minister of Transport what practicable plans are available which could be carried out without involving a substantial demolition of private property at the junction of Neasden Lane and the North Circular Road.

Mr. Marples

None which would be capable of dealing with future traffic flows.

Mr. Skeet

asked the Minister of Transport what plans he has for developing other intersections where traffic congestion is likely to occur as a result of the completion of the Neasden bypass.

Mr. Marples

I do not accept that the proposed underpass would significantly increase traffic congestion elsewhere. Consideration is being given to improvements and traffic engineering measures which will in any case be necessary at other intersections owing to the normal growth of traffic.

Mr. Skeet

asked the Minister of Transport when road works are likely to be undertaken at the Neasden bypass.

Mr. Marples

I have made provision in my road programme for an improvement of the junction of Neasden Lane and the North Circular Road, but I cannot say when road works would be likely to start.