§ Mr. SteenTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what is the maximum tailback, resulting from the resurfacing of the M5 between junctions 16 and 18; what steps he is taking to shorten it; and on what grounds the planned timing of these roadworks was decided. [31851]
§ Mr. Watts[holding answer 30 June 1995]: This is an operational matter for the Highways Agency.
494WI have asked the chief executive to write to my hon. Friend.
Letter from Lawrie Haynes to Mr. Anthony Steen, dated 11 July 1995:
As you know, the Minister for Railways and Roads, Mr John Watts, has asked me to reply to your Parliamentary Question asking the Secretary of State for Transport, what is the maximum tailback resulting from the resurfacing of the M5 between junctions 16 and 18; what steps he is taking to shorten it; and on what grounds the planned timing of these roadworks was decided.The Agency does not keep detailed records of tailbacks resulting from roadworks.All possible action to minimise the delays caused to motorists was taken. Instead of the more normal contraflow layout which has 2 lanes of traffic in each direction this scheme included an extra lane through the works area making a total of 5 lanes open to traffic. The contract was of the Lane Rental type whereby the contractor is given an incentive to complete early and penalised for poor performance.The work was carefully itemised. It was started after the Easter Bank Holiday. Restrictions were removed completely for the Late May Bank Holiday and scheduled for completion by 30 June, before the school holidays. I am pleased to confirm that the contract finished on time.