§ Sir John Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for Transport what tours have been made by Ministers and officials in his Department of the M25 within the Epping Forest district of Essex; what representations were made to them, and have been otherwise received, about noise from the motorway; and what remedial action is being taken.
§ Mrs. ChalkerDepartmental officials have visited the area regularly and had discussions with local authorities and other parties. My hon. Friend has referred three representations to my Department about noise from this section of the M25. Additionally, representations have been received from Epping Forest district council, Waltham Abbey town council, Upshire Village Preservation Society, a number of residents' groups and a considerable number of individuals. Consulting engineers have recently surveyed current noise levels. They are now evaluating the results and assessing the need for remedial action. I hope to receive their report soon. When this has been considered, I will write to my hon. Friend.