§ Mr. Nicholas Wintertonasked the Secretary of Slate for Transport what is the average cost per mile for the maintenance of motorways which are (a) under two years old, (b) between two and five years old, (c) between five and 10 years old, and (d) over 10 years old.
§ Mrs. ChalkerMaintenance costs of motorways vary not only with the age of the road but also with factors such as the level and composition of the traffic carried, the form of construction and the location of the motorway. But typical annual costs for all maintenance activities on a 3-lane motorway are as follows:
Annual cost per mile (1982) prices Age of motorway Under two years about £6,000 Two-five years about £10,000 Six-10 years about £15,000 Over 10 years £40,000-£120,000 The sharp rise in cost after 10 years reflects the need for the renewal as the original construction reaches the end of its useful life.