§ Mr. LathamTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what representations he has received from farmers and other local residents regarding his Department's proposal to close crossings on the A46 trunk road in the vicinity of Thrussington and Seagrave, Leicestershire; and whether he will outline the consultation procedure which will be followed to take account of the views of residents.
§ Mr. AtkinsSince December last year, the Department has received 34 letters from 20 local farmers and residents about the proposed closure of crossings on the A46 near Seagrave and Thrussington, including letters from both parish councils. I have also received two letters from my hon. Friend the Member for Rutland and Melton. A traffic regulation order will be promoted to close the junction between Seagrave and Thrussington and other nearby crossings on the A46. To prepare this, the Department will consult in advance farmers and residents whose property fronts on to the A46, to establish what use is made of each crossing. A draft traffic regulation order will then be published, taking into account the views of frontagers. It will be open to formal objections which the Department will consider before deciding whether or not to make or modify the order, or to hold a public inquiry.