§ Mr. Loveysasked the Minister of Transport what representations she has received concerning the proposed alterations to the level crossing at Yapton; why the local residents were not consulted in the first place about these alterations; and whether, in view of local concern, she will arrange for a public inquiry to take place.
§ Mr. John MorrisRepresentations about the safety of the proposed automatic half-barrier installation at Yapton level crossing have been received from the Chichester Rural District Council, three Parish Councils, and three local residents.
Before applying for an Order to authorise this installation British Railways arranged a meeting of interested parties at the level crossing site. This meeting was attended by representatives of West Sussex County Council, Chichester Rural District Council, the National Farmers Union, and officers of the Divisional Road Engineer's staff. This meeting, and the two-month period for representations by the highway and local authorities following formal notification to them of an application for the Order, provided full opportunity for expression of local views, and a public inquiry would serve no useful purpose.