§ Mr. Neaveasked the Minister of Transport what is the estimated cost of construction of the entire 12-mile length of the proposed diversion of A34 from South Hinksey to Chilton, bypassing Abingdon and Drayton; what is the estimated cost of the length from south of Drayton to Chilton; and when she expects to announce a line for the diversion and its place in the trunk road programme.
§ Mr. SwinglerThe estimated cost of the 12½ mile diversion is £5¾ million, including some £2¼ million for the length from south of Drayton to Chilton. My right hon. Friend hopes to publish a draft Order to establish the line next year, but it is too early to say when schemes for the construction of any part of this could be included in the road programme.
§ Mr. Neaveasked the Minister of Transport why she has decided that the proposed diversion of A34 should bypass Abingdon to the west rather than the east; what are the main problems involved in constructing a route to the east; and whether she will make a statement.
§ Mr. SwinglerAn easterly route would be more expensive to construct as it would necessitate two crossings of the River Thames. It would have to be constructed in its entirety. The proposed westerly route, running in close proximity to the existing road and having intermediate connections with it, would give greater traffic relief. It would be about £½ million cheaper and by constructing it in stages the expenditure could be spread over a number of years.
§ Mr. Neaveasked the Minister of Transport what is the estimated cost of a diversion of A34 from Chilton to South Hinksey bypassing Abingdon to the east.
§ Mr. SwinglerAt least £6¼ million.