Commons Sense

House of Commons · Westminster Hall

National Highways Maintenance and the A5036

16 October 2024 · 1 other contributor · 2,889 words

Opened by Peter Dowd Lab Bootle

Responding minister: Simon Lightwood

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 national highways maintenance and the a5036 in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key points

  • Concerns raised about National Highways' management of the A5036 in Merseyside, including issues with office behaviour, freedom of information requests, and engagement with local authorities.
  • Issues related to maintenance on the A5036, such as litter and detritus, and delays in rebuilding a footbridge at Park Lane West due to cost constraints.
  • Minister acknowledged concerns and noted an internal review assessing road projects including the A5036 Princess Way, with plans for safety measures and pavement resurfacing work.

Key requests to Government

I ask the Minister to ensure that National Highways improves its engagement with local authorities, addresses maintenance issues on the A5036, and considers rebuilding a footbridge that has been delayed due to cost constraints. I also request that National Highways shares more information transparently to improve accountability.

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

I am concerned about National Highways' management of the A5036, a major road in Merseyside with approximately 40,000 daily traffic movements. Issues include inappropriate behaviour by the north-west office of National Highways, non-compliance with freedom of information requests, and poor engagement with local authorities. There are problems related to maintenance, such as litter and detritus, as well as a delay in rebuilding a footbridge at Park Lane West due to cost issues. The Office of Rail and Road highlighted that National Highways restricts its ability to show performance by not sharing data adequately.

Other contributors (1)
  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    Commended the hon. Gentleman for bringing forward issues regarding National Highways' response to safety concerns, particularly concerning children's access across a bridge. Highlighted that there must be a solution proposed in discussions with National Highways and the Minister.

Government Response

Simon Lightwood

Acknowledged Peter Dowd's concerns about the A5036 Princess Way improvements and Park Lane footbridge. Emphasised the importance of good transport links for economic growth, noting that an internal review is assessing road projects including the A5036 Princess Way. Provided details on safety measures at Switch Island and pavement resurfacing work planned for 2025-26. Discussed National Highways' plan for a permanent signal-controlled crossing at Park Lane, highlighting ongoing collaboration with Sefton council and Active Travel England.

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