§ SIR FREDERICK W. HEYGATEsaid, he wished to ask the First Commissioner of Works, Whether the roadway and equestrian ride leading from the west end of Rotten Row to Queen's Gate are intended to be permanently closed to carriages and riders; and, whether the gravel which is now being removed from the surface of Hyde Park, to the depth or four or five feet, is to be replaced by black mud and clay taken from the Serpentine; and if he considers such a proceeding conducive to the health and comfort of the public?
§ MR. AYRTONSir, in consequence of the great increase of houses on the north and south sides of the Park and of Kensington Gardens, it is now necessary that there should be a convenient thoroughfare for carriages from north to south, and, in consequence, the end of the road to which the hon. Baronet refers is cut off. It is intended to lay out that corner with flowers, instead of the great variety of iron railings with which it is at present adorned. In answer to the second Question, I have to say that it is intended to deposit the mud from the Serpentine in the most convenient place—namely, the place in the Park from which the gravel has been excavated; but it will be so covered up with clay and re-turfed that no one will be cognizant of its existence.
§ In answer to another hon. MEMBER,
§ MR. AYRTONsaid, that the mud would be effectually drained by the drains already under the soil of the Park.