HC Deb 08 July 1981 vol 8 cc154-5W
Mr. Cartwright

asked the Secretary of State for Transport when he now expects construction work to start on the East London river crossing between Thamesmead and Falconwood.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

That will depend on how long it takes to choose and design the crossing and to complete the necessary statutory procedures. It is too early to fix a firm estimated date for construction, but I would envisage a possible start in 1987.

Mr. Cartwright

asked the Secretary of State for Transport how many properties his Department or the Greater London Council has acquired in connection with the building of the East London river crossing between Thamesmead and Falconwood; how many of these currently are unoccupied; and what is his policy on their use.

Mr. Kenneth Clarke

My Department has acquired five houses and is in the process of buying four more. None is at present occupied.

Following our usual policy, we are offering the local housing authority the opportunity to rent them. If the offer is declined, private lettings will be arranged.

I understand that the Greater London Council has acquired about 200 properties, including shop premises and residential units. I have no details of the current occupation of any of these properties.