East London River Crossing

HC Deb 19 October 1992 vol 212 cc202-3W

Mr. Simon Hughes

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he last visited Oxleas wood; when he last had communication with the European Commission regarding the east London river crossing; and if he will make a statement

Mr. Norris

I visited Oxleas wood in May. The United Kingdom sent its response to the European Commission's article 169 letter in December 1991. The Commission announced on 31 July that it will be proceeding to reasoned opinion on the alleged non-compliance with the EC Directive on Environmental Assessment. No further communication has been received.

Mr. Simon Hughes

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what was the original estimate of the cost of construction of the east London river crossing; what is his current estimate; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Norris

The original estimated cost of the east London river crossing, as set out in the White Paper "Policy for Roads: England 1980" Cmnd. 7908, was £90 million, for construction works only, at 1978 prices. Following detailed development of the scheme, including substantial changes discussed at the two public inquiries, the current estimated cost including land is about £300 million at 1989 prices.