35. Mr. John M. TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will make a statement on progress on the Birmingham Northern Relief Road. [54365]
§ Dr. ReidI am very pleased with today's High Court judgment which clears the way for implementation of the Orders for construction that were made in February. It vindicates the Government's position, showing that they acted with probity and integrity.
This new road is vital as a much needed alternative to the very heavily congested M6 and as a strategic national route.
The process of getting this road authorised under the statutory provisions has taken over 5 years. The inquiry itself took over 15 months. It is time for us to get on with the job and start construction of this much needed scheme.