HC Deb 28 February 1977 vol 927 cc13-4W
Mr. Watkinson

asked the Secretary of State for Transport how long he estimates that one of the eastbound lanes on the Severn Bridge will be closed.

Mr. Horam

It is estimated that the slow lane of each carriageway of the Severn Bridge will be reopened to traffic in September 1977.

Mr. Watkinson

asked the Secretary of State for Transport if repair work is being carried out on the eastbound lane of the Severn Bridge that is presently closed.

Mr. Horam

Proposals for the replacement of the rocker assemblies under the east-and west-bound carriageways of the bridge are being discussed urgently with a contractor.

Mr. Watkinson

asked the Secretary of State for Transport what are the causes of the closing of one of the eastbound lanes on the Severn Bridge.

Mr. Horam

Recent analysis has shown that the rocker assemblies that partially support the ends of the bridge deck should be replaced to withstand certain unlikely but possible loading conditions. Until the necessary work has been completed the slow lanes are closed to eliminate the possibility of overloading the existing rockers.