To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will investigate the quality of repairs undertaken by the Highways Agency to the A38 Bridge over the M4 at Almondsbury in 1998; and if he will make a statement. [81956]

The repairs carried out in 1998 to the A38 bridge over the M4 at Almondsbury included road resurfacing and strengthening works necessary to ensure that the structure remained safe for future use.The Highways Agency was not satisfied with the surfacing laid by the contractor and negotiations have led to that surface being replaced at no expense to the taxpayer. The repair work began on 19 April and subject to weather conditions should be completed within 2 weeks.