§ Mr. NormanTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make an announcement on the route for the A21 South of Pembury to Flimwell before Parliament rises on 18 December 2003. [144449]
§ Mr. JamiesonAn announcement will be made following full consideration. The Highways Agency is developing proposals for the section of the A21 between Kippings Cross and Lamberhurst. This area is particularly sensitive in environmental terms and it is important to achieve a balance between the impact on the environment and the impact on those living beside the existing route. I hope to make an announcement early in the New Year following further discussions with colleagues in the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs.
The Highways Agency has not yet started looking at the Lamberhurst to Flimwell section of the A21 and the Lamberhurst bypass is currently under construction.