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Cleveland Bridge: Weight Limit
17 November 2020
Lead MP
Wera Hobhouse
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
TransportLocal Government
Other Contributors: 0
At a Glance
Wera Hobhouse raised concerns about cleveland bridge: weight limit in the House of Commons. A government minister responded.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Cleveland bridge, a grade II* listed structure and part of Bath's UNESCO world heritage status, is facing significant issues due to heavy traffic causing structural damage. The route around the bridge has high levels of air pollution, making it crucial for the Government to comment on air quality concerns when considering road improvements. Wiltshire Council, Dorset Council, and Bath and North East Somerset Council have formed an alliance to address infrastructure challenges, but a comprehensive solution requires economic studies and strategic road investment. The bridge's current repairs are funded by £3.56 million from the Department for Transport and will be closed next year for further work. However, without long-term weight restrictions, the bridge may again need urgent repairs soon.
Government Response
The Minister thanked Wera Hobhouse for raising the issue of Cleveland Bridge and acknowledged its national importance. She noted that the Department has provided £3.56 million towards the bridge's repairs, with local authorities contributing the remainder. The Government is investing over £7.1 billion in highway maintenance between 2015 and 2020-21 to improve local road infrastructure. The Minister highlighted the need for a strategic study of north-south connections between the M4 and Dorset coast, which includes reviewing the A350 corridor as an alternative route. She assured Hobhouse that both Highways England and officials would engage with stakeholders during this process and invited further engagement if needed.
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.