§ Mr. MaclennanTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to his reply to the hon. Member for Caithness and Sutherland, 15 March, Offical Report. column 118, on what bridges inspections are being carried out by divers; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Portillo[holding answer 22 March 1989]: Inspection by divers of three bridges on the Inverness-Wick/Thurso railway line—Beauly viaduct, 709W Evanton and Alness viaduct—has been satisfactorily completed. The inspection at Conon viaduct is continuing, but is being hampered by high flows of water. Work already carried out there has indicated a need for remedial action and the Conon viaduct has therefore been temporarily closed. I understand that BR's target date for completion of repairs is May.