HC Deb 25 October 1988 vol 139 c197W
Mr. Cartwright

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he now expects work to start on the construction of the east London river crossing; and when the road is expected to be open for use.

Mr. Channon

I hope it will be possible to start construction in 1991 and open the road in 1994.

Mr. Cartwright

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what is the most recent estimate of the cost of the east London river crossing, broken down between(a) property acquisition, (b) road construction, (c) bridge building and (d) other structures.

Mr. Channon

The estimated costs at average 1984 prices, as presented at the inquiries, are:

£ million
1. Land and property acquisition 25.2
2. Road construction 38.4
3. Thames bridge 56.0
4. Other structures 48.7

The figures exclude site preparation and supervision, estimated at £14.7 million.

Mr. Cartwright

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what is his estimate of the additional cost of building the east London river crossing in cut and cover through Oxleas Wood as recommended by the inspector who conducted the public inquiry into the scheme.

Mr. Channon

I am satisfied that the additional cost would be at least the £10 million estimated by the inspector.

Mr. Cartwright

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what is his estimate of the number of families needing alternative rented housing as a result of the construction of the east London river crossing; and who will be responsible for providing the necessary accommodation.

Mr. Channon

At present it is estimated that some 70 households will have to be rehoused. The responsibility for rehousing the majority will lie with the London borough of Greenwich.