A21

Greg Clark
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, pursuant to the answer of 25 January 2007, Official Report, column 1909W, on the A21, what stage the tendering process for the A21 Tonbridge to Pembury and A21 Kippings Cross to Lamberhurst improvement has reached; and if she will make a statement.

Mr. Tom Harris
The tender process began in late March 2007, with invitations to tender. These were returned in early July and assessment was completed during mid-September.

The south east regional bodies have been asked to confirm their support for these schemes on the basis of the latest cost estimates. A decision regarding award of contract for the A21 Tonbridge to Pembury and A21 Kippings Cross to Lamberhurst improvement schemes will need to take this confirmation into account.