HC Deb 24 June 1997 vol 296 cc494-5W
Mr. Edwards

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what assessment he has made of the need for an additional bridge over the Monnow River in Monmouth. [3572]

Mr. Hain

The main access to the town is by the Monnow bridge on the local road network. Any proposals for an additional bridge are therefore a matter for Monmouthshire county council as local highway authority. As far as the trunk road network is concerned my present assessment is that there is no requirement for any additional crossing.

Mr. Edwards

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has received from CADW about the physical condition of Monnow Bridge, Monmouth. [3571]

Mr. Ron Davies

Monnow Bridge is a scheduled ancient monument under the provisions of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979 although it remains in use as a crossing of the River Monnow, Monmouth. Cadw: Welsh Historic Monuments is a part of my Department, and monitors the bridge on my behalf. Incidents of damage such as that recently caused by a motor vehicle are reviewed by Cadw with the county council which owns the bridge.