§ Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what is the total number of calls received by the cones hotline; and how many resulted in remedial action being taken; [32752]
(2) what is the total cost of the cones hotline. [33115]
§ Mr. WattsThe cones hotline began in June 1992 and by the end of June 1995 it had received 17,700 calls. Approximately half the calls concerned cones and traffic management, and half were requests for information about roadworks or general queries about roads, planning, policy, and so on. Where appropriate we have taken steps to alter the layout of cones, improve signposting at roadworks, review diversion routes, repaint road markings and investigate road lighting at roadworks as a result of comments and complaints from hotline callers. In five cases, this follow-up action required the complete removal of cones and traffic management measures which were no longer required. During the last financial year, 1994–95,404W the cost of the dedicated service line was approximately £5,000. The cost of staffing the line was met from within existing establishment and budgets.