HC Deb 16 December 1959 vol 615 cc161-2W
56. Mr. McLeavy

asked the Minister of Transport if he is aware of the difficulties of heavy road haulage vehicles arising from the soft surface of the lay-bys on the M1 motorway and the lack of facilities for fuel or eating, and that road haulage undertakings are withdrawing their vehicles from the motorway on account of these difficulties; and if he will make a statement on the steps he is taking to correct these deficiencies.

Mr. Marples

Heavy goods vehicles have caused ruts at some times on the hard shoulders of M1 and the need for remedial measures is being examined. Fuel is available at two service areas on the motorway. Catering and other facilities will be provided at both by the spring of next year. I am not aware that road haulage undertakings are ceasing to use M1 because of the matters to which the hon. Member refers.

79. Mr. Gresham Cooke

asked the Minister of Transport if he will consider putting a safety barrier, along the lines of the Dahl barrier, down the middle of the central reservation on Ml at curves in the road.

Mr. Marples

I shall need a good deal more experience of the motorway before I can decide whether a central barrier is desirable and, if so, what form it should take.