§ Mr. Moateasked the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on the implications of the proposed major repair works to the Kingsferry bridge on the A249 for traffic to the Isle of Sheppey and the port of Sheerness; and if he will institute an urgent study to consider emergency relief measures and long-term improvement of the existing facilities.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyIn consultation with British Rail, we are considering how the urgently needed repairs to the 251W concrete deck of Kingsferry Bridge should most conveniently be undertaken. I recognise the importance of the A249 to the Isle of Sheppey and the port of Sheerness, and although delays to traffic will be unavoidable, every effort will be made to keep them to a minimum.