HC Deb 29 July 1971 vol 822 cc170-1W
Mr. Skeet

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he anticipates the Newnham Bridge will be built across the River Ouse to take a substantial volume of the traffic west of the town of Bedford; what are the reasons for the delay; what is the estimated cost of the new bridge compared with the estimate of 12 months ago; and what are the capacities the Newnham inner relief road and bridge are designed to carry.

Mr. Graham Page

It is not possible to forecast when the bridge will be built because statutory procedures are not yet complete.

On 9th June, 1971, Bedford Borough Council made an appropriation order for the common land involved and proposals for exchange land; objections have been received. My right hon. Friend must consider these and decide whether a public inquiry is necessary before he can confirm the order; then he can consider confirmation of the Council's Bridge Scheme Order made in 1966.

The estimated cost of Newnham and Everard Meadows Bridges is £277,000 which represents an increase of about 7 per cent. over 12 months.

The design capacity of Bedford Inner Relief Road Stage 1 is 1,500-plus per hour.