Mr. Walter (North Dorset, Conservative): To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what plans are in place to upgrade the A303 to a dual carriageway; and what the likely completion date is of each scheme.
Dr. Ladyman (Minister of State, Department for Transport): I have accepted the Region’s advice that priority for a start on a second strategic route in the South West should be given to either the A303 Ilminster Bypass or Stonehenge, if the current review identifies a deliverable and affordable scheme.
The A303 Ilminster Bypass is included within the 10 year forward programme which forms part of a high quality strategic route to the South West. Subject to regional funding, construction on this scheme could begin in 2014-15 with completion in 2017. The Stonehenge Report is still under review.
The remaining unimproved sections of the A303 are:
A303 Chicklade Bottom to Mere Improvement
A303 Sparkford to Ilchester and Podimore Junction Improvement
A303 Wylye to Stockton Wood Improvement.
These three schemes are in the Region’s longer-term list of priorities (beyond 2016) and are currently on hold.