HC Deb 09 April 1946 vol 421 cc1771-2
5. Mr. Derek Walker-Smith

asked the Minister of Works if he has any statement to make about the proposed use of the Regent's Park terraces.

Mr. Tomlinson

I assume that the hon. Member refers to the proposed use of parts of the terraces by my Department. Two hundred and twelve large houses in the Regent's Park terraces are to be converted for temporary use as Government offices. The houses were taken over in all cases by agreement, either with the Commissioners of Crown Lands or with the lessees. While not prejudicing any long term proposals which may be formulated in respect of these terraces, the scheme will be of value in preserving them from further deterioration and, at the same time, providing upwards of 500,000 square feet of office space which will enable me to release an equivalent amount of requisitioned accommodation.

Mr. Walker-Smith

Will the Minister assure the House that in regard to the short term conversions, and any long term scheme which may be introduced, he will preserve the facade and layout of this unique survival of Georgian architecture?

Mr. Tomlinson

That is the purpose of the scheme.

Lieut.-Colonel Dower

May we take it that any alterations which are made will not in any way prevent this survival of a particular period from retaining its architectural features?

Mr. Tomlinson

I imagine that that is what I have just said.

Mr. Gallacher

Will the Minister see that the unique rents are not retained?

Sir John Mellor

How does the Minister reconcile his answer with his statement that Regulation 68 (c) (a) is complied with by the Departments?

Mr. Tomlinson

The answer is that this has been done with the cooperation of the Minister of Health.