Bridges: Barcombe

(asked on 24th November 2021) - View Source

Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Baroness Vere of Norbiton on 1 November (HL3360), how long the pause referred to is intended to be; what the financial penalties will be if a decision is taken to not proceed with the infilling of Barcombe Bridge; and why the price for the infilling was accepted after the decision was taken to pause the programme.


Answered by
Baroness Vere of Norbiton Portrait
Baroness Vere of Norbiton
Parliamentary Secretary (HM Treasury)
This question was answered on 29th November 2021

No decision has yet been taken as to when the pause to infilling work on the Historical Railways Estate might end. As advised previously, National Highways is reviewing its programme of works and seeking additional input through its ‘Stakeholder Advisory Forum’ which comprises key stakeholders, with an interest in historical railways and active travel. This body will review all future National Highways major works proposals, ensuring future schemes take account of stakeholder feedback and opportunities to repurpose and re-use structures.

No financial penalties will be incurred by National Highways if the infilling of Barcombe Bridge does not proceed.

The procurement activity for works to Barcombe Bridge commenced on 5 May 2021, before the pause was in place. National Highways took the decision to continue with the process as it was already underway and this would be more cost effective, and represent better value for money, than having to repeat the process at a later date, if required. National Highways have stated to the contractor that no work should be taken forward until further instructions are issued.

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