Mr. HicksTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will state the reasons for the delay in the opening of the Saltash bypass; what action he proposes taking to minimise this delay; and what is the new projected date for the completion of the bypass.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyThe contract for the construction of Saltash bypass was originally due to be completed by the end of July. Work has taken longer than anticipated because of unexpected construction difficulties. We are pressing the contractors to complete the works as quickly as possible. We hope to open the bypass before the end of the summer. In the meantime, we are considering whether any special steps can be taken to reduce delays during peak holiday traffic periods.