HC Deb 09 December 1968 vol 775 c7W
58. Sir T. Beamish

asked the Minister of Transport if he is aware that Stage I of the Lewes Relief Road cannot be completed by the target date unless he gives his authority for excavation through the railway embankment of the Lewes-Uckfield line to begin early in 1969; and if he will give his consent for this work, in view of the traffic delays in Lewes and the number of representations from pedestrians unable to cross the High Street without risk.

Mr. Carmichael

We are aware that if the formation of the existing railway line cannot be breached early next year, there is a risk of delay in the completion of Stage I of the Lewes Relief Road. However, the Railways Board are not free to implement the railway closure decision until they can comply with those conditions of my right hon. Friend's consent which require the provision of certain additional bus services. I understand that a hearing of the licence applications for these bus services cannot now be completed by the Traffic Commissioners before 20th or 21st January, 1969.