Written question asked by Lord Blencathra (Conservative) on Wednesday, 26 January 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 24 March 2000. It was answered by Keith Hill (Labour) on Friday, 24 March 2000 on behalf of the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions.

Dept of the Environment Transport and the Regions

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions, when he will announce the start of construction on the Cumberland Gap.

Answer: Mr. Maclean: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he will announce the start of construction on the Cumberland Gap. [107577] Mr. Hill: Following the Road Review, a lower cost option for upgrading of the A74 between Carlisle and Guardsmill to motorway has been identified. We are today adding this scheme to our targeted programme of trunk road improvements and it will now be developed by the Highways Agency. Subject to the completion of statutory procedures the aim will be to let a contract for the scheme in 2004.

Secondary information