asked the Minister for the Environment if he is fully aware of the serious deterioration which has taken place in the condition of country roads and by-roads; and the proposals, if any, he has to deal with the situation.
Written Answers. - Road Maintenance.
287.
I am aware of the deterioration in the condition of regional and county roads in recent years. I am hopeful that our budgetary strategy for 1983 will see an overall net improvement in the condition of these roads.
This year's road grant allocation of £25.5 million for maintenance of roads generally represents an increase of 18.6 per cent relative to 1982. The extra £31.5 million provided in rates support grants compared with the provision made by the previous administration last November has allowed local authorities a wider range of discertionaly expenditure. The Local Government (Financial Provisions) (No.2) Bill, 1983 will also give local authorities power to raise additional revenues. The authorities will, I am sure, direct a fair share of this finance to the maintenance of regional and county roads.