HC Deb 16 October 1995 vol 264 cc92-3W
Ms Walley

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what is the cost to public funds of the construction of the A34 Newbury bypass. [36674]

Mr. Watts

This is a operational matter for the Highways Agency.

I have asked the chief executive to write to the hon. Member.

Letter from Lawrie Haynes to Ms Joan Walley, dated 16 October 1995: As you know, the Minister for Railways and Roads, Mr. John Watts, has asked me to write in reply to your Parliamentary Question about the cost of constructing the A34 Newbury Bypass. The current estimate for the cost of the works and the land is £70 million.

Ms Walley

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will outline the public consultation he has undertaken in respect of the Newbury bypass. [36676]

Mr. Watts

This is an operational matter for the Highways Agency. I have asked the chief executive to write to the hon. Member.

Letter from Lawrie Haynes to Ms Joan Walley, dated 16 October 1995: As you know, the Minister for Railways and Road, Mr. John Watts has asked me to write in reply to your Parliamentary Question about the public consultation undertaken in respect of the Newbury Bypass. The public were consulted about route options in 1982; as well as the public we also sought the views of statutory bodies and other interested parties. Exhibitions were held at the same time. Following consideration of the comments received at Public Consultation, the preferred route for the bypass was announced in June 1984. In 1988, following the publication of draft Orders, a Public Inquiry was held by an independent Inspector to enable objections to the published line to be fully aired. In 1990, the Inspector's Report was published along with the decision letter. This followed detailed consideration not only of the report, but of representations received following the public Inquiry and revised National Road Traffic Forecasts. The decision letter also announced modifications to some of the draft Orders, which required further consultation with people likely to be affected by the proposed changes.