§ Mr. Nigel JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport when he expects work to correct the structural weakness to the M5 Golden Valley viaduct between Cheltenham and Gloucester to be completed; and if he will make a statement. [27058]
§ Mr. WattsThe Highways Agency programme is to strengthen or replace the structure during the years 1997–98 and 1998–99, subject to resources being available.
Lane and weight restrictions are in force on the structure to limit traffic loading.
Investigations have been in progress since the loading restrictions were imposed to determine the levels and extent of structural weakness. These investigations are part of the exercise to establish whether it is most cost effective to strengthen or replace the structure.