HC Deb 04 April 1887 vol 313 cc359-60
MR. LAWSON (St. Pancras, W.)

asked the First Commissioner of Works, Whether, for twenty-seven years, the public have been able to use the whole of the ornamental waters of Regent's Park for boating purposes; if so, why their use has been curtailed by a chain being put across one part; and, whether he will order its removal?

THE FIRST COMMISSIONER (Mr. PLUNKET) (Dublin University)

, in reply, said, that it would not be quite accurate to say that the whole of the ornamental waters in Regent's Park had always been open to the public for boating purposes; but the hon. Member's Question, no doubt, referred to the fact that a chain was placed across the water under the new bridge at the southern end of the water, opposite to Clarence Gate. This was done, he was informed, to prevent overcrowding at certain times. He would inquire into the matter, with the view of seeing whether the restriction could with safety be relaxed.