§ Mr. Hayesasked the Secretary of State for Transport when the updating of the primary route network will begin following the recent review; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyA plan for updating the network has been produced by the Department after extensive consultations with the local highway authorities. The changes will be implemented over the next four years.
The primary route network of main roads, which are specially signed by green-backed direction signs, provides the best routes for long-distance journeys or parts of journeys which cannot be made on motorways.
The green-backed signs were first introduced in the 1960s and are widely recognised and followed by drivers. Since that time, many miles of motorway have been built but the primary route network is still essential to provide effective through routes linked with the motorways and covering all parts of the country.
563WMore than 20 years of improvements to our roads and the changing demands on our road network to cater for increases in traffic and changes in the location of people and activities have made it necessary to bring the primary route network up to date.
The network will continue to be kept under review and further changes will be made as and when required.