§ Mr. Staintonasked the Secretary of State for Transport why, contrary to his Department's publicly expressed plans, the report of the public inquiry into the proposed Ipswich southern bypass together with his decision have not yet been published; and if he will now give a firm date therefor.
§ Mr. HoramI am not aware of any statement indicating precisely when the decision of my right hon. Friends the Secretaries of State for Transport and for the Environment would be made known. The issues raised at the inquiries were complex, and consideration of the inspectors' report will inevitably take some time. Every effort will be made to announce the decision as soon as possible.
§ Mr. Staintonasked the Secretary of State for Transport what were the approximate commencement and completion dates for the Ipswich southern bypass intended by his Department in 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977 and so far in 1978.
§ Mr. HoramIn 1973 it was planned to start work in 1977. In 1974, at the time of public consultation, the start date was quoted as early 1980, with the possibility of the crossing of the River Orwell being commenced earlier. In 1976, when the formal proposals were published, it was announced that work on the bridge could start in early 1979 and take three years to complete, with the main road works beginning a year later, that is, 1980 and taking two years to complete. The road would thus be open to traffic in 1982. These dates have so far been maintained.