§ Mr. John MarshallTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what estimates have been made of the likely growth in motorway traffic in the next 10 years; and what percentage of motorways it is estimated will have to carry more traffic than their design capacity in 1988.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyThe national road traffic forecasts, published in 1984, provide a range for total traffic growth nationally. They do not distinguish between traffic on motorways and that using other roads. Since the forecasts were produced, actual traffic growth has been at the upper end of the forecast range. If it continues in that way some sections of motorway will become congested. In742W our regular reviews of the national road programme we assess what additional capacity is needed to cater for future growth. The White Paper published last April added 12 motorway widening and improvement schemes to the programme.
§ Mr. John MarshallTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport which sections of the M25 already carry a greater volume of traffic than their design capacity; what forecasts have been made of future traffic flows on the M25; and when he expects to make a decision on the proposal by private developers to augment the capacity of the M25.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyTraffic flows on some sections of the M25 are very heavy and congestion occurs. Last year's roads White Paper announced a review of the whole of the M25 and details are to be announced shortly. This will assess future traffic levels, identify potential problem areas, and suggestion solutions. Costains recently published in outline a scheme for a second tier on the M25. We have not yet received firm proposals.