§ Mr. Matthew BanksTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what representations he has received via the cones hotline concerning the carriageway repairs to the M4 at Heston; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what progress is being made to the carriageway repairs of the M4 near Heston; and when he expects the work to be completed.
§ Mr. Norris[holding answer 21 February 1994]: The M4 has provided sterling service since it was built nearly 30 years ago but now needs major refurbishment. Three representations have been made through the cones hotline about the carriageway works currently under way between Heston service area and Boston Manor road. These works, involving partial reconstruction of the concrete carriage-way followed by full overlay with bituminous material, started on 22 January and were expected to take 13 weeks. However, good progress is being made and, weather permitting, the works could be completed in a total period of about 10 weeks.
Further works are planned between junction 4 and the elevated section for later this year to complete the refurbishment programme which will prevent the sort of failures experienced last year.
These are part of a £30 million programme of essential works for the main radial routes in west London over the next 18 months. These works are necessary to keep the roads safe and serviceable, and to improve their appearance, but everything possible will be done to minimise any inconvenience to road users.