§ Mr. Gwilym Robertsasked the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what are the latest figures available for the number of vehicle accidents on motorways; and how many of these accidents were in any way related or adjacent to road works;
(2) what are the latest figures available for the number of injuries and deaths on motorways; and how many of these accidents involving death or injury were in any way related or adjacent to road works.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeIn 1979 there were 203 persons killed and 6,228 reported injured in 4,044 injury accidents on motorways and A(M) roads. Information on the presence of road works is available only for some 3,300 of the motorway accidents. Road works were reported to be present at 279 of these, but the corresponding casualties could be obtained only at disproportionate computing cost.
§ Mr. Gwilym Robertsasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will study the total costs involved with current methods of motorway repair and maintenance with the aim of improving the efficiency of the repair and maintenance system.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeYes. We are continually reviewing the operation of the motorway maintenance programme with a view both to minimising the risks and delays to road users and to getting the best possible value for money.
§ Mr. Gwilym Robertsasked the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what representations he has received from vehicle drivers, vehicle fleet operators and others as to the effect of motorway repairs and maintenance on traffic flow, accidents, financial and other costs; and if he will give details of these representations in the Official Report;
(2) what representations he has received as to the number and length of motorway lanes which are restricted 292W due to repair and maintenance operations; if he will examine methods of reducing these problems; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeAs the motorway system ages and traffic volumes increase, we must expect a growing proportion of the network to require strengthening. The Department receives a small but growing volume of correspondence about the effects of this programme on traffic flows. Our aim is to carry out essential works as quickly, safely and as economically as possible.
§ Mr. Gwilym Robertsasked the Secretary of State for Transport what representations he has received as to the dangers and difficulties arising from motorway contra-flow systems; if he will take steps to reduce the use of contra-flow systems; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeTraffic management arrangements at motorway repair sites are carefully planned to minimise traffic disruption and secure maximum safety for both drivers and contractors' employees. The contra-flow system is one technique adopted to assist traffic flows around large works. The Department receives few complaints about the system and I am satisfied that its use is preferable to diverting traffic on to unsuitable all-purpose roads.