§ Mr. David ShawTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what is the current position with regard to the A20 proposed road improvements between Dover and Folkestone.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyThe scheme for the improvement of the A20 from the M20 at Folkestone to the Eastern docks at Dover is being prepared in two sections.
Authority for the western section from M20 to Court Wood is provided by the Channel Tunnel Act. Authority 458W for the eastern section from Court Wood to Dover is being sought by orders under the Highways Act which were the subject of public inquiries held in 1988. The inspector's report is being carefully considered. It is hoped to announce decisions on these by the early autumn this year.
Subject to the satisfactory completion of the outstanding statutory procedures, the aim is to complete both sections in time for the opening of the Channel tunnel in 1993.