§ Sir R. Russellasked the Minister of Transport for how long parts of Victoria Street and Broadway, Westminster, S.W.I, will be closed to traffic because 78W of danger from the building being demolished on the corner of these two streets; why this closure has been necessary in view of the fact that many buildings have been demolished in London in recent years without traffic being diverted; and what steps are being taken to ensure that future demolitions will not necessitate the closure of streets and an increase of traffic congestion.
§ Mr. MarplesVictoria Street reopened for eastbound traffic today and it is hoped that normal two-way traffic working will be restored early next week on completion of road works. Broadway will reopen as soon as progress of demolition work will safely permit but I cannot at present say how soon this will be.
The police had to close these streets to protect the public when collapse of part of the building in course of demolition obstructed Victoria Street on the night of 11th December and a survey disclosed risk of further collapse in the affected building and those adjoining it.
Whether there should be additional measures of control over demolition work is a matter which will need consideration but it is impossible to guarantee that future demolitions will never necessitate the closure of streets.