§ Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is the assessment of the effect of the proposed M4 relief road in Gwent on local sites of special scientific interest. [35875]
§ Mr. Gwilym JonesThe M4 relief road is estimated to occupy less than 2 per cent. of the area of the sites of special scientific interest in the Gwent levels. I am satisfied that the relief road can be developed without the scientific resource being seriously affected.
§ Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales, what has been the effect on traffic numbers travelling through the Brynglas tunnel and through main routes in Newport since the opening of the tunnel bypass schemes. [35866]
§ Mr. JonesThere has been a reduction of 22 per cent. in traffic flows through the Brynglas tunnels; and on other routes the reduction has been as follows:
Per cent. Malpas Road north of M4 31 Malpas Road south of M4 23 B4596 Caerleon Road South of M4 23 Town Bridge 4
§ Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what plans he has for an environmental impact assessment on the proposed M4 relief road from the second Severn crossing and Castleton. [35874]
§ Mr. JonesAn environmental impact assessment on the M4 relief road Magor to Castleton scheme will be carried out and a full environmental statement under the European directive will follow at the time when statutory powers are sought to construct the road.