§ Mr. Austin MitchellTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what proportion of the total number of tunnels on the British Rail network has been inspected in the last(a) 10, (b) 20 and (c) 30 years; [27791]
(2) what proportion of bridges on the British Rail network has been inspected in the last (a) 10, (b) 20 and (c) 30 years. [27792]
§ Mr. WattsI understand that all Railtrack's bridges and tunnels are subject to regular visual inspection; in addition, all tunnels receive a full structural inspection annually and all bridges receive a full structural inspection on a six-year cycle.
§ Mr. MitchellTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport (1) what is the total number of tunnels in the British rail network; and how many were built(a) before 1875, (b) 1876 to 1900, (c) 1901 to 1950 and since 1950; [27789]
(2) how many bridges there are in the British rail network; and how many were built (a) before 1875, (b) 1876 to 1900, (c) 1901 to 1950 and (d) since 1950. [27786]
§ Mr. WattsRailtrack's network encompasses around 40,000 bridges, viaducts and tunnels. Many were constructed more than 100 years ago. Further information on the dates of construction could be obtained only at disproportionate cost.