asked the Minister for the Environment if he will provide money for the repair and improvement of accommodation roads into farm dwellings following the heavy flooding in August which caused damage to these roads; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Accommodation Roads Repair.
34.
Arising from the recent severe floods, my Department is providing £6.5 million to local authorities towards the cost of remedial works to public roads (including bridges).
In the case of roads which are not in public ownership, certain local authorities may contribute to the cost of works on these roads under the local improvements scheme. This scheme applies to farm road projects eligible for EC aid under the western package. Under the legislation governing the local improvements scheme, the roads, when constructed or improved must be used as a means of access to two or more parcels of land (owned or occupied by different persons) or serve the public. The cost involved is met from Exchequer grants and contributions from the beneficiaries. The 1986 Exchequer provision for the scheme of £2.15 million has been fully allocated.
The administration of the local improvements scheme, including the selection of projects and the allocation of the Exchequer funds notified by the Department, is a matter for the county councils. Subject to compliance with the above requirements, it is open to local authorities to select for improvement farm roads-bridges damaged in the recent flooding.
The position relating to the availability of funds in 1987 for capital schemes, including the local improvements scheme, will be settled in the context of the 1987 budget.