HC Deb 16 December 1912 vol 45 cc1075-6
8. Mr. CASSEL

asked the President of the Board of Agriculture, as representing the First Commissioner of Woods, whether his attention has been called to a resolution passed by the Marylebone Borough Council protesting against the erection of any additional buildings in Regent's Park, and desiring that its value as an open space may be preserved for the use of the public; and whether the Government are prepared to give effect to this resolution by refusing to allow any buildings to be erected or any lands to be enclosed in the park, and throwing open to the public any lands now enclosed whenever leases fall in and a suitable opportunity arises?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

The attention of the Commissioner of Woods, who has charge of the Crown estates in London, has been called to the resolution referred to. It is intended to retain, but not to increase, the number of residences at present in the park, and before the surrender or falling in of the lease of such a residence careful consideration is given by the Commissioner, in communication with the Office of Works, as to whether any and, if any, what land held with the house can, with advantage, be added to the area open to the public without unduly affecting the letting value of the residence, and wherever that can be done, land is added to the open area before granting a renewed lease.