§ 88 and 89. Mr. Neaveasked the Minister of Transport (1) if he is aware of the need for a decision on the line of the by-pass of Abingdon on A34; and whether he will instruct his Department to complete their survey before 1st September, 1968.
(2) what are the latest figures for the cost of the proposed by-pass of Abingdon on A34; when the last estimate of traffic growth through Abingdon was made; what were the results; and what has been the percentage annual increase in such growth;
(3) how many alternative schemes are under consideration by his Department for the bypass of Abingdon on A34; and whether there has been a change of policy as to which side of the town the proposed road should be built.
Mr. Bob BrownWe are fully conscious of the need for an early decision on the line of the proposed by-pass but this depends on the analysis of additional information about possible alternatives. This information should be available during August. A decision will be taken as soon as possible thereafter.
The last full census of traffic movements on the A34 to the south and north of Abingdon was taken in 1965. This indicated an average annual increase of about 6½ per cent. since 1961. This has been supplemented by an Origin and Destination survey north of Abingdon in 1966. At present, mechanical counts are being taken and comparative results will shortly be available.
Two possible lines are under consideration, both to the west of the A34 though 124W each of these is subject to further minor variation. A line to the east of the town was considered and rejected some time ago. This too is being looked at again following representations from the Council for the Preservation of Rural England. Detailed cost figures are not yet available but a westerly by-pass would probably cost at least £4 million and might cost considerably more.