HC Deb 25 January 1945 vol 407 cc957-8
39. Mr. Douglas

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that the Arnold urban council has considered the purchase of land in Breck Hill Road for a branch library, and that the district valuer was prepared to recommend the purchase at the price agreed upon by the committee; whether he can state the area of this land, its rateable value, and the price it was proposed to pay; and what the result of the negotiation has been.

Mr. Willink

No, Sir. I have no information concerning this proposal. I am, however, making inquiries, and will communicate with my hon. Friend.

40. Mr. Douglas

asked the Minister of Health whether sanction has now been given for the acquisition by the Worthing Town Council of land adjoining Harrington Road area for building houses; what is the area of the land involved and the rateable value at which it has heretofore been assessed; and what price is being paid.

Mr. Willink

I have agreed to the acquisition by the Worthing town council of 5 acres of land, in addition to 6½ acres they already own, in Barrington Road, and the council are now in negotiation with the owner. The land is derated.

41. Mr. Douglas

asked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that Eastbourne council has been negotiating with the Chatsworth Estates Company for the purchase, for housing purposes, of land at the junction of Churchdale Road and Northbourne Road; that the district valuer was unable to agree a purchase price with the Chatsworth Estates and the company were unwilling to consent for the case to be submitted voluntarily to an official arbitrator: that for three acres a price of £2,500 was asked; whether the purchase has now been sanctioned, and at what price; and what is the rateable value of the land in question.

Mr. Willink

Yes, Sir. The Eastbourne town council have made a compulsory purchase order in respect of this site, which I confirmed on 29th December. Negotiations have been proceeding between the estate and the council in the matter of compensation, which has not yet been fixed. The land is derated.