§ 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 by-passing Abingdon; and what is the estimated cost of the length from south of Drayton to Chilton.
§ Mr. MarshThe estimated cost of the length from South Hinksey to Chilton is about £9 million. Of this amount the length from south of Drayton to Chilton, which is under consideration for inclusion in the preparation pool, is estimated to cost £3.8 million.
§ Mr. Neaveasked the Minister of Transport whether he will state his reasons for preferring a route west of Abingdon for the proposed diversion of A34; and what estimate he has made of the cost of a route by-passing Abingdon to the east.
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§ Mr. MarshA route west of Abingdon is preferred because it would be less expensive than an easterly route but would provide greater traffic relief and could, if necessary, be constructed in stages. It is estimated that the easterly route would cost about £9½ million—£½ million more than that to the west.
§ Mr. Neaveasked the Minister of Transport whether he is aware of the need for a spur road to Didcot from the proposed diversion of A34 by-passing Abingdon; and what is the estimated cost of constructing such a road.
§ Mr. MarshThe timing and nature of such a road must depend upon the decision to be taken about the improvement of the route between Drayton and Chilton.