§ Sir William ClarkTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport how much has been spent on safety fencing on the M4 during the year 1988–89; how much is expected to be spent in 1989–90; and, of the amounts spent or to be spent, how much is attributable to replacements of faulty safety fencing.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyIt is estimated that some £270,000 was spent in 1988–89 on the replacement and maintenance of safety fences on the M4. The replacement of fences is undertaken for various reasons such as changes in road surface levels as a result of resurfacing, or damage caused by impacts, and it is not possible to attribute the amounts spent to particular reasons. We are not aware of any safety fencing having to be replaced because of inadequate 257W performance. Some £380,000 has been allocated for replacement and maintenance in 1989–90. Actual expenditure will depend on the extent of unpredictable factors such as accident damage. All safety fences continue to be regularly inspected and maintenanced.