Rayleigh Weir Underpass

Sir Bernard Braine
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what are the reasons for delay on the construction of the Rayleigh Weir underpass on the Al27; when the work will now be completed; what steps are being taken to minimise the inconvenience caused to local residents; and what steps are being taken to inform in advance those most affected of any changes in arrangements for access to their homes.

Mr. Chope
Work on the new grade separated junction at Rayleigh Weir began on 4 December 1989 with an original proposed completion date of 1 December 1991. British Telecom underestimated the time it required to divert its cables which has led to a significant delay. The new completion date is 9 February 1992.A liaison officer has been appointed to help co-ordinate the statutory undertakers' works and to deal with complaints. To keep residents informed, the contractor sends out advance notice of works and the liaison officer issues letters about statutory undertakers' works.The situation for residents has been improved by the construction of a new service road, the closure of the entrance to the industrial estate, the laying of a new footpath for access to houses and the provision of a car parking area by the main contractor.