§ Mr. Roy Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Transport what steps are being taken to alleviate the traffic problems of south Wales and the west of England following the difficulties experienced through the recent closure of the Severn bridge due to bad weather and the expected hold-ups and delays due to the replacement work on the bridge hangers.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyThe complete closure of the Severn crossing is rare—it has happened twice since the crossing was opened in 1966. Hanger replacement and other strengthening works on the crossing have been planned in such a way as to keep all traffic lanes open all day during the summer and at all peak periods throughout the year. One lane in each direction will remain open at all times, except for four occasions in the early hours of Sunday mornings in the winter, when full closure of the crossing is planned. Plenty of advance notice will be given of the actual dates. Plans have been made for diverting traffic on these occasions.