§ Mr. Macfarlaneasked the Secretary of State for Transport what is the nature of the problem concerning the maintenance work on the M4 from the Chiswick flyover to the Heathrow Spur; and if he is satisfied with the signals used and the 341W advance warning given to motorists by his Department prior to the closure of the westbound carriageway.
§ Mr. HoramThis is routine maintenance, including joint and minor carriageway repairs, white line and motorway lighting renewals. It is being done at night to keep inconvenience to traffic as small as possible. The measures to warn motorists before the carriageway is closed are well tried and designed to ensure safety.
§ Mr. Shersbyasked the Secretary of State for Transport what estimate his Department has made of the annual increase of traffic using the M4 motorway; if separate traffic movement estimates are available for the section between Central London and London Airport; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. William RodgersThe following estimates are available for the period 1972 to 1977, derived from traffic counts taken at selected points along the M4 motorway.
PERCENTAGE AND ESTIMATED INCREASE IN TRAFFIC (ANNUAL AVERAGE, 1972 TO 1977) Junctions 3–4, Harlington (between Central London and London Airport) +0.24 Junctions 7–9, South of Maidenhead +1.47 Junctions 14–15, Membury +5.83 Junctions 21–22, Severn Bridge +2.18