HC Deb 23 March 1999 vol 328 cc150-1W
Mr. Gorrie

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to hold trials of the use of shredded tyres in new road surfaces. [77424]

Ms Glenda Jackson

There are no proposals for trials of surfacings incorporating shredded tyres within new road surfaces on the Department's trunk roads. New road surfaces are being developed with shredded tyres forming part of their composition. The Highways Agency is working closely with surfacing manufacturers and local authority associations to develop further the scope for using recycled tyres in road surfaces and in other highways applications. The materials will be subjected to trials when capable of meeting the required levels of performance for safety and durability.

Mr. Gordon Prentice

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what use is made of recycled material from car tyres in road surfaces; and if he will make a statement. [77825]

Ms Glenda Jackson

Recycled material from car tyres is not currently used in road surfaces specified for the Department's trunk roads. New road surfaces are being developed with shredded tyres forming part of their composition. The Highways Agency is working closely with surfacing manufacturers and local authority associations to develop further the scope for using recycled tyres in road surfaces and in other highways applications. The materials will be subjected to trials when capable of meeting the required levels of performance for safety and durability.