HC Deb 25 May 1971 vol 818 c128W
Mr. Dodds-Parker

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what advice is being given by his Department to local authorities in connection with redevelopment in conjunction with the construction of motorways with a view to ensuring that such construction leads to a positive and beneficial effect on the environment.

Mr. Graham Page

My officials give frequent advice to authorities on projects of this kind, including the engineering, planning and environmental aspects. A circular is available to authorities giving advice on the control they should exercise over development near motorways. A study is in progress on what further steps might be taken to fit motorways better into their environment.

Mr. David Clark

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will take action to provide more trees and plants on the verges of motorways, as a result of his Department's survey.

Mr. Michael Heseltine

All motorways are planted with trees and shrubs as part of their landscape treatment. My Department is planting well over 750,000 trees and shrubs each year on trunk roads and motorways.