Commons Sense

House of Commons · Westminster Hall

A5036 Park Lane Footbridge Replacement

04 July 2023 · 0 other contributors · 2,816 words

Opened by Peter Dowd Lab Bootle

Responding minister: Richard Holden

Transport

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Peter Dowd raised concerns about a5036 park lane footbridge replacement in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key points

  • The A5036 footbridge replacement is a matter of deep concern to constituents due to daily traffic volume of about 40,000 vehicles, with 2,500-2,600 during peak hours.
  • An accident in October 2022 led to the demolition of an old footbridge, necessitating a new safety measure for pedestrians crossing a busy junction.
  • The hon. Member for Bootle urges the Minister to intervene and expedite the construction of a new footbridge, as all assessments and consultations have been completed and there is broad support with no opposition.

Key requests to Government

I urge the Minister to intervene and expedite the process of constructing a new footbridge, as all assessments and consultations have already been completed. The proposal has received broad support with no opposition. We must avoid further delays that could extend for another year or more.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Peter Dowd Lab Bootle

The A5036 footbridge replacement is a matter of deep concern to my constituents. The main road, leading down to the port of Liverpool, sees about 40,000 vehicles daily with 2,500-2,600 during peak hours. An accident in October 2022 led to the demolition of an old footbridge which was a safety measure for pedestrians crossing a busy junction with various establishments nearby. National Highways' decision to reconsider replacing the bridge after agreeing on its necessity is causing anxiety among residents who see no practical alternative to a new bridge.

Government Response

Richard Holden

It is a pleasure to serve under your chairmanship, Sir Robert. I thank the hon. Member for Bootle (Peter Dowd) for securing this debate on the replacement of the A5036 Park Lane footbridge. Good transport connections are key to ensuring road users use our network safely and supporting productivity, innovation, and economic growth across the country. National Highways was considering options for replacing a pedestrian footbridge that was struck by an HGV in October 2022, resulting in its demolition. A temporary signal-controlled crossing has been installed as a safety measure. However, due to the volume of traffic on the road, including many HGVs, this solution is constructed to permanent standards but results in pedestrians taking detours from their usual routes. National Highways' top priority is ensuring public safety and delivering schemes that are safe and offer value for money. The cost estimates have increased substantially with modern accessibility standards in mind. A review to assess various options for providing a crossing point safely will be completed, and outcomes will be communicated to local stakeholders within the next few months. Following this review, I will meet the hon. Member and National Highways to discuss any issues if he is not happy with the solutions proposed.

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