HC Deb 21 June 1977 vol 933 cc419-20W
Mr. Moate

asked the Secretary of State for Transport how many towns and villages in England with populations of between 2,000 and 10,000 have now been provided with effective long-term relief from through traffic by the construction of bypasses or similar roads, in more than one direction where required; what proportion this total represents of all villages and towns of between 2,000 and 10,000 inhabitants; and how many more such towns and villages are likely to be so relieved by 1990.

Mr. Horam

I regret that the information is not readily available and could be provided only at disproportionate cost.

Mr. Moate

asked the Secretary of State for Transport how many towns in England with a population of over 10,000 have now been provided with effective long-term relief from through traffic by the construction of bypasses or similar roads, in more than one direction where required; and how many more such towns are likely to be so relieved by 1990.

Mr. William Rodgers

It is estimated that about 140 towns in England with populations greater than 10,000 have a specific trunk road bypass or relief road and about a further 60 trunk road schemes of this nature are currently in preparation. The timing of construction will depend on engineering factors, statutory procedures and the availability of funds. Apart from specific bypass schemes, many communities are indirectly relieved of through traffic by the construction of motorways or the improvement of other routes in their vicinity.