HC Deb 20 July 1977 vol 935 c571W
66. Mr. John H. Osborn

asked the Secretary of State for Transport, in view of the need for good road links to Manchester, and in particular Manchester Airport, if he will indicate what discussions he has now had with the Sheffield Metropolitan District Council, the South Yorkshire County Council, and the Yorkshire and Humberside Planning Council, following his decision not to proceed with the M67 motorway, to provide adequate road links.

Mr. Horam

Since my right hon. Friend announced his decision, he has had no talks with the planning council about the Manchester—Sheffield route, but we have received deputations from the South Yorkshire County and Sheffield District Councils. These deputations pressed for an early start on a bypass for Stocksbridge and Deepcar and we have agreed that public consultation on the alternative routes under consideration for this scheme should begin before Christmas. Regular meetings between the Department and the local authorities are now being held at official level.