§ Mrs. GillanTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport what representations he has received on the use of porous asphalt in road building; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth CarlisleSince I announced in July 1992 that the Department would be taking steps to reduce road noise, I have received many representations from local authorities, representatives and from the general public for the use of porous asphalt on road schemes. Assessments are being carried out to establish whether the conditions for the use of porous asphalt are suitable and the benefits outweigh the higher cost including the need for more expensive winter maintenance and more frequent surfacing.